Every year, I send an e-mail around Thanksgiving Day that starts with thanking you for being part of my community and supporting me in doing work that is so fulfilling—helping people bring their books to life.
Well, of course, I want to thank you once again.
I also wondered about how I can thank you in a way that’s particularly meaningful and helpful to you. I figured one of the best gifts I could give you is to get you writing. So, here are a few writing prompts—choose one that inspires and write!
- List 25 gifts you’re thankful for. Include all the gifts that come from being a writer, like being able to inspire others, help others, make a difference in the community/world, the joy of writing, the joy of sharing, the joy of reading. Now pick one item on your list and write about it in detail. Try to use at least three or four of your senses in your writing.
Just a few weeks ago, we still had blackberries and raspberries ripening in our garden–grateful for the bounty! - Write about a particularly poignant Thanksgiving memory…or a time you felt especially grateful. Employ all your senses to make the moment come alive again on the page.
- Is there something that you feel resentful about? Recently, I felt resentful towards my husband about something that had been getting under my skin. It wasn’t even a big thing, but it had been eating at me. I finally told him how I felt. He shared that this was a weakness of his and he was working on changing it. I suddenly felt so much more compassionate and was able to let go of my perceptions and judgments. I felt grateful that we’d had this communication. Can you write about a resentment you harbor or something that’s been bugging you? Once you get your gripes on the page, is there a way to see it from another perspective? See if you can open up to an expanded view. You may even turn your resentment into gratitude.
- Write 50 reasons for you to write your book. Does 50 intimidate you? Just start thinking of all the possible ways your readers can benefit from your book, then think of the ways your book can change your life. Then think of individual people you can inspire or help—each one of them is a reason.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this year’s Thanksgiving message. I decided to post on my blog in addition to e-mail so you can share your insights, inspirations or ideas that came out of the writing prompts–please do share your comments!
Note: This writer cares about typos. If you find one, click here to be part of the EditMob – it’s anonymous.
I do have a very special Journal I use when I am inspired by Spirit. I thought about your query is there something you would share about gratitude. So I went to my journal. These are my thoughts on this time last year. After reading my list, I can honestly say, I still believe in every word today.
I am grateful for music. Whether it is an instrumental or a beautifully talented singer moving my soul by their rendition, I am grateful that I can use my auditory facilities to “hear” music. I know there are some many individuals missing so much beauty.
I am grateful for my intuition. I believe my new heart has shown me who I can inspire to Become.
I am grateful for Family especially at this time of the year. Even IF it is drama. It is OK. It is family, and we are called to love unconditional.
I am grateful for community. Whom ever it may be. It is a connection to you. Community could be acquaintances, friends , neighbors. I am grateful for my little community within the complex where I reside. I love seeing them and greeting them, even when I am not teaching them Yoga. They are dear to me.
I am grateful that I get to wake up every day! This is a great feeling. Even though I may not be feeling at my best. I am grateful that I CAN wake up!
I am grateful for all the beautiful moments in my life. I know they too are a Blessing. I am Grateful.
You are very good Lisa! You make me smile!! Thank you!!