Yesterday, I challenged readers to thank those people in their lives for whom they are particularly grateful.  The idea was inspired by a book titled, Gratitude, by James Bradley.

Yesterday - that same day - the Wall Street Journal published an article titled, "Thank You.  No, Thank You."  The article asserts that grateful people are happier and healthier.

It seems word is spreading that, to really shine we must be grateful for good fortunes in our lives.

The article was chock full of suggestions about how we can learn to look on the bright side, as well as how we might even cultivate gratitude in our children.  Take a look at this suggested activity - just in time for Thanksgiving.  I think I will try it with my six-year old

Think of a time that someone went out of their way to help you.  Read the question and then write your answer.

What did the person do to help you?

How do you know that his/her help was intentional?

What did it cost that person to help you?  (For example, was it time, money, effort?)

How were you benefited by this person's help?

How did this person make you feel?

Bonus: What will you do to show your gratitude to this person for their help.

I'm not six, but I'm quite certain I will still benefit from participating.  Visit me in the Community Forum labeled Today's Post and see my answers to today's questions.  While you are there, feel free to share you own.  You will feel better and we might learn something.

Shining off until tomorrow...