“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” —John F. Kennedy

The Oxford Dictionary defines grateful as “feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness.” Being thankful is a feeling; being grateful is an action. And while they are often used interchangeably, gratefulness is seen by many as a deeper state of being that carries a heavier weight to its meaning.

Today, we have asked our team to take a moment and reflect on gratitude—nothing is too small to be grateful for. We extend that request to you. After introspection, turn that thought into an action. Let’s use our voices and live by example.

Many of the events that have occurred around the world this year—some in our own communities—remind us to be grateful for our rights, our voices, our freedoms, opportunities, relationships, and our lives.

May we all live gratefully today and every day.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us @ Alabama Chanin

(Picture courtesy of Rinne Allen—who we are grateful for sharing her talents and capturing beauty in the world.)