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Thankfulness begins with you

by jmaloni

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Thu, Nov 28th 2013 07:00 am

by Paulette Glasgow

There is a story about Spanish King Alfonso XIX who, upon learning individuals in his court failed to give thanks before their meals, decided to teach them a lesson.

Alfonso gave a lavish banquet and invited all to attend. Suddenly, a beggar appeared, sat down and began to eat. After satisfying himself, the beggar got up and left without saying "thank you."

Those in attendance immediately became angry and shouted, "That ungrateful beggar. He ate the king's food and never said thank you."

On hearing this, Alfonso said, "every day each of you are given rich blessings, from the food you eat to the air you breathe, yet you never stop to say thank you."

Now, if I haven't caused your eyes to roll back into your head or caused you to nod off, my reason for this story is, as we go about our busy lives, far too many of us fail to say and be thankful for all that is given us. I know I fall into this bad habit, then suddenly someone or something causes me to give thanks.

This year, as we struggle to the nearest chair after overindulging on turkey dinner with all the trimmings, it might be a good time to quietly reflect on all you have to be thankful for. I am thankful for good health; good friends; a spouse and family who overlook my faults and flaws. I am thankful to live in a country where the possibilities offered me are endless. And where, when I show a kindness toward someone, they say "thank you."

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