Gratitude During the Holiday Season

For me, the festive holiday period is not only a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, but a review of all for which I have to be grateful.  Gratitude is all too often easily taken for granted, especially when involved in the everyday business of life.  As I get older, I’ve become more aware of the value of staying connected to family and friends, while feeling comfort in knowing that I am not alone — that I am part of something larger than myself.  It also calls forth fond memories of family and friends since departed, who remain part of the fabric of the person I’ve come to be.

Giving thanks for what I have often give way to thoughts of what’s lacking or missing in my life.  In focusing on what I don’t have or what’s missing, it’s easy to become oblivious to or minimizing of those special moments, experiences and connections with people that have enriched me.  And, to lose sight of even the smallest, fleeting moments of beauty that surround me.  It is up to me to become mindful of that which truly adds joy and meaning to my life.  It’s up to me to show my appreciation for acts of kindness, giving and love.  It’s up to me to savor the moment, in all its beauty and majesty.  It’s up to me to live with compassion and love in my heart, or finding fault and flaws in others.

So, in giving thanks and sharing my gratitude for even the smallest of things, I truly live in the moment and feel most alive.

To everyone out there that feels alone, depressed, or frustrated during the holidays, I send out my love and support for each one of you to give thanks, no matter how seemingly trivial or small, for the gift of life — and ask you to consider gratitude over self-loathing, negative appraisal, resentment, and anger.  To consider focusing on what you have, rather than what you lack.  And, focus on making your world and your place in it a more joyful, thankful and enriching place.  If you can imagine the life force that beats within and connect with that greatest self you are capable of becoming, even if the odds seem stacked against you there’s not much that can hold you back.

Depression, sadness, anxiety disorders, stress, and worry can make it difficult to find happiness in your life. We all need support at different times in our lives.  Most of my clients seek help when their current way of dealing with life’s challenges no longer works for them. With a caring, non-judgmental and solution-focused approach, we will explore your issues and challenges in a safe therapeutic environment at my private practice in Delray Beach, Florida.

I also offer remote online therapy from the comfort and security of home that will allow you to learn more effective ways of managing your anxiety and stress.

Let’s walk the path to freedom from depression and anxiety together. If you’re ready to let go of the sadness, depression, fears, worries, and anxieties that are making life difficult, check out my Anxiety & Depression Support Group hosted every other Tuesday at my private practice.