What Are You Grateful For?

As we enter Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday, I can’t help but reflect on the countless blessings woven throughout my life. This transitional time, when fall quietly fades and Advent draws near, reminds me to pause, savor family, and embrace a deep, faith-filled gratitude.

Here’s what I am grateful for this year:

My family: My mom is my biggest inspiration. She has walked through so much with grace, strength, and an unshakeable faith. As I step deeper into adulthood, I look to her as a role model of the kind of woman I hope to be.

I’m especially thankful for my aunt, uncle, and cousin, who welcomed my mom and me into their beautiful beach abode and filled the beginning of this holiday season with warmth. My cousin, in particular, mirrors my mom’s beautiful, steadfast faith, someone whose life continually inspires me.

My older brother has also shaped me more than he knows. He always looks out for me and has shown me the kind of genuine gentlemanliness I pray to find in a future relationship.

Relationships:Speaking of relationships…I’m in a new one: the longest one I’ve ever been in! He is kind, funny, loving, and someone I can truly imagine a future with…God willing.

My mental health:I am deeply grateful for the progress I’ve made this year. I’ve been in therapy for about four months, and my doctor has been the perfect match. I’ve learned that starting therapy when life is calm is the best preparation for when life inevitably becomes difficult. I also completed the GriefShare program, which helped me honor and remember my dad (gone 13 years this November) and reflect on the hope Christ promises us in seasons of loss.

My job:I am grateful for meaningful work. My role directly contributed to company success this year, and I’m equal parts relieved and proud. With the support of incredible supervisors, I’ve grown professionally and personally. As a new season of bids and marketing projects begins, I want to keep learning, keep creating, and keep refining my craft.

How to Practice Gratitude (Simple, Faith-Filled Steps)

If you want to cultivate gratitude more intentionally this season, here are a few gentle practices to help:

1. Begin with a quiet moment

Before you start your day, pause for 60 seconds. Take a breath, invite the Holy Spirit in, and ask:“Lord, show me where You were present yesterday.”

2. Keep a gratitude journal

Write down 3–5 things each day that you’re thankful for, big or small. This naturally builds a habit of noticing grace.

3. Reflect through Scripture

Choose one verse that speaks to gratitude or trust (Psalm 118, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, or Philippians 4:6) and meditate on it for a few minutes.

4. Practice gratitude in community

Share one thing you’re grateful for at dinner, in a group chat, or in your prayer circle. Gratitude grows when spoken aloud.

5. Turn gratitude into action

Perform a small work of mercy: write a thank-you note, pray for someone, donate, or offer a quiet act of service.

6. End your day with a simple examen

Ask yourself:

• Where did I experience God’s goodness today?
• What moments brought me joy or peace?
• Where can I grow tomorrow?

These steps help build a faith-centered gratitude practice that enriches your mental health, deepens your spiritual life, and anchors you in God’s presence.

Truly, I am incredibly grateful for this growing community of women of faith. Together, we brighten Christ’s light through the legacy Blessed Chiara Luce Badano left behind. Every time we gather here … through posts, reflections, and conversations… we radiate her joy, simplicity, and trust in God. As we look toward a new year, I’d love to know what kinds of Catholic lifestyle content, reflections, and spiritual tools you’d like to see. And together, let’s continue to #LiveLikeLuce.