Our Opinion: An attitude of gratitude this Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, we're grateful for attitude.

Our Creator gave us the gift of free will, which allows us to begin each day with the attitude we choose.

We can awaken to a day that is bright with new opportunities, possibilities and, inevitably, challenges. Or, we can dread the gloom of remaining mired in resentment, boredom and anguish.

The difference is attitude.

A positive attitude empowers us to choose, to act and to serve.

A negative attitude traps us in the victim role where we react to, and blame, others.

Blaming others is a caustic condition. Have you ever heard someone say: "He makes me so angry;" "She's always trying to lay a guilt trip on me;" "If you were married to him/her, you'd understand what I'm feeling?"

The truth is no one can control your attitude unless you allow it.

We choose to blame others when we become angry, guilty, resentful, frustrated, etc. Why? Because if we blame others, we don't have to change.

Change is rarely easy, but it can be therapeutic and bring peace of mind.

Thanksgiving, and the holiday season that leads to Christmas and New Year's Day, can be a challenging time.

Family gatherings, holiday parties and frenzied activity may renew old animosities or place us among people we prefer to avoid.

Instead of enduring anxiety and suffering through situations, consider the peace of mind that comes with changing your attitude.

This Thanksgiving, enjoy and appreciate the gift of free will that permits us to enhance our attitude and exercise our abilities.