Encouraging an Attitude of Gratitude

‘Tis (practically) the season!

It’s right around the time of year when I start thinking about the upcoming holidays, wondering how I can make the season feel special, and magical, for my kids, without spoiling them. It’s always a delicate balance, which proves difficult at a time of year replete with decadence, splendor, and indulging in lots of good things.

My dad used to take the kids downtown, with a pile of sealed envelopes in his breast pocket. When the homeless asked for spare change, my Dad or us kids would give them an envelope that read, “Merry Christmas” with a $20 bill inside. I carried that tradition on, taking my girls to a play or musical each December, to be downtown in the hopes to help those less fortunate than us.

We always also participate in school and sports fundraisers, clothes, toy, or food drives, with a focus on the WHY, and not the HOW. It’s really important to me that these girls grow up not thinking they are better than anyone else, or more deserving of nice things than any other person, or family. Any one of us can become down on our luck, get sick, or otherwise. We all have dignity and are all as deserving of others’ kindness. Some years we buy or donate, and other years, when money is tighter, we find things to volunteer for. Last year, we were making deliveries to Syrian refugee families new to the area.

How do you make sure you raise your kids with an attitude of gratitude?

Featured image photo credit: 5PH/Thinkstock

Natalie Rea

Mom to two amazing daughters - a feisty teen in middle school, and an ambitious young adult in university. Originally from Montréal's West Island, I now explore the beautiful trails of Hamilton, Ontario. Proud Canadian, vegetarian, dog-adopter, & bleeding-heart liberal. I smile a lot because I have Resting Bitch Face.