At this time of year, the veils are thin, and our ancestors’ messages are more easily received. Do you feel the shifting energies? The harvest season is ending and the dark season is about to begin, here in the northern hemisphere. We’re getting ready to go within more to listen to our inner guidance and guides.

What a great time to be thankful!

Imagine all the bounty of food, music, gatherings, and the abundance of the season. Everywhere you look, you can find compatriots, allies, new friends, and blessed opportunities. Even on those days when things seem to go wrong, be thankful for where you are right now. Train yourself in all the fabulous ways you can be a better you.

For example, remember how you used to get so P.O.’d about how this or that person treated you? Notice them around as much? Unless they are vibing with you, they can’t affect your experience. With practice, each time someone upsets you, you’re able let it go just a bit sooner than before.

Discovering your inherent flow is a process. Affirm to yourself: This is my life and I am doing what works best for me! Notice that best is the key adjective here. When you look for the ideal in your current situation, whatever it may be, awareness begets better awareness.

How you feel is like a self-fulfilling prophecy. You get to choose what you focus upon, no matter the subject. Your current best may simply be grabbing a book and taking a bubble bath. Self-nurturing is a sure-fire way to get back into your stream of feeling good. The lessons learned when you are struggling will be a blessing in disguise.

You know what is truly best for you. Whether it’s snuggling in for a good read, going out dancing with your besties, or taking that deep breath to center yourself before continuing the frustrating conversation, you are the chooser of your life. We all have an infinity of options at our disposal.

Why not pick one that leans in the direction of what’s best for you?

Believe me, I’ve practiced self-effacing, self-doubt and negative self-talk. It can feel easier than stepping into what truly matters. But quicker is not always better.

I’m not saying that you must enjoy a stressful situation. But take a little time to feel it – all of it, good, bad, or ugly. Then let go back into the flow.

Be thankful for the experience and move on.

It can be easy to get caught up in reimaging, reinventing, or over-analyzing your past actions – or as my mom says, “shoulda, whoulda, coulda.” Sometimes you forget to be thankful in the present moment. Instead of rehashing your negative thoughts, be truthful with yourself.

The truth is: you’re doing pretty darn well.

You’ve found your own rhythm. Sure, there are bumps and bruises along the way, yet you’re expanding into new awareness, understanding and faith in yourself like never before. Be at least thankful for that!

Your body is mostly healthy. Your community is mostly supportive. Your relationships are mostly respectful. Your family is mostly friendly. Your smile is mostly genuine.

The practice of thankfulness is the cornerstone to a vital way of life. You don’t have to be perfect. As you recognize the joys of the season: gatherings, sacred circles, and get-togethers, you’ll find more ways to be thankful for your sometimes contrast-laden adventures.

And the practice of getting better and feeling better gives a reward simply by doing it. You feel a little better. Gradually you’ll discover new vistas, communities, and abilities once unheard of, as you practice gratitude and self-love.

Thankfulness is its own reward!

So, head into the Giving Thanks season with your best in mind and heart. You may journey through some deep feeling places as you travel back up into the light, but the lessons learned along the way are a gift in themselves.

Start with yourself. Thank yourself to whatever depth you can, and be glad you’re alive today.

Tis the season to be thankful!

Blessings!