What are you thankful for?

It’s November, a month for giving thanks.

Psalm 100 advises us to, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name” (KJV).

It should be no surprise that the psalmist was onto something: Some contemporary researchers have found a link between gratitude and better emotional and physical health.

Thanksgiving continues a tradition begun in 1621, when Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag people shared an autumn harvest feast. Colonies and states continued to celebrate different days of Thanksgiving until 1863. Then, when the country was torn apart by the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln instituted a National Day of Thanks.  

Perhaps Lincoln was thinking of Psalm 100. Or maybe he sensed what positive psychology researchers have been telling us: that giving thanks brings people together and improves their well-being in the process.

We sat down with a few Emporia Presbyterian Manor residents and staff members to find out what they are thankful for.

Virginia Pester, resident

“I am thankful for having a nice place to call home, my friends and my faith.”

Maria Lane, director of social services

“I am grateful for being able to provide window and iPad chats when visitor restrictions are in place. I enjoy connecting residents and their families.”

Pat Adams, resident

“I’m thankful for my kids, and that they are living close by!”

Lori Maxon, interim life enrichment coordinator

“I am thankful for every single thing in my life, even the not-so-good things. Every challenge and struggle presents me with an opportunity to grow in wisdom and experience providing me with the capability of helping others with similar issues … I firmly believe that there is always, ALWAYS something to be thankful for!”

Ann Doudican, resident

“I am thankful for my family, my lovely home here at the Presbyterian Manor and having God on my side.”

Galen Barrett, resident

“I am thankful for every employee at Emporia Presbyterian Manor. They have stepped up to every occasion and situation that has come their way.”

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