November

The month of November is and has always been my favorite month of the year.

As a child, it was the favorite because it is my birthday month. But now, turning one year older isn't such a big deal anymore. November is still my favorite though. I love the cooler evenings and mornings it brings with it (living in the heat of AZ, we're still in shorts and tee shirts on Halloween. . . ), the beautiful winter lawns, the orange trees finally showing their fruit, and sweatshirts.

I also like November because it's one of the few holidays that haven't lost it's true meaning through commercialism. Christmas is flooded with themes of Santa and gifts instead of the birth of Christ, Easter is filled with baskets and bunnies instead of thoughts of the Resurrection. But Thanksgiving is about being with families, remembering that first meal years ago, and just being thankful.

My favorite part of November though is that it tends to bring a general change in attitude, an excitement and anticipation for the holidays, and an overall love and appreciation for my family and friends. November has always brought me an increased sense of gratitude.

Here's a few quotes from Pres. Monson in last month's General Conference:

• Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God's love.
• A prayerful life is the key to possessing gratitude.
• Pride destroys our gratitude and sets up selfishness in its place.
• Often we feel grateful and intend to express our thanks but forget to do so or just don't get around to it. Some one has said that 'feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.'

The last quote has been on my mind since General Conference, and probably because I'm one of those who feel like I have a grateful heart--I 'intend' to say thank-you but don't get around to doing it. . . Especially to those who deserve it most, like my children and husband.

My goal for this next year of my life is to not only be grateful, but to EXPRESS my gratefulness. Because that's truly how to have an attitude of gratitude.