Great at Gratefulness Every Monday (and Tuesday) Matters

The Science of Happiness Watch this… oHv6vTKD6lghttp:// oHv6vTKD6lg

November is… Every November, we are reminded of Thanksgiving, which is a time to be thankful for the things that we have. The tradition began with Pilgrims and Indians joining together to “give thanks” for all they had. Take 2 minutes, and on a sheet of paper, make a list of as many things as you can that you are thankful for. Share with a partner what is on your list and why.

FAMILY?FOOD? PETS? FRIENDS?FREEDOM?BOOKS? SHELTER?ABILITY TO READ? WATER?FAVORITE THINGS? CLOTHES TO WEAR? KISSES AND HUGS? GAMES? Did you include?

SOMETIMES WE FORGET TO BE THANKFUL FOR EVEN THE SMALLEST OF THINGS…LIKE FOOD. How do you show your appreciation for these things?

In many ways, America is the land of plenty. But for 1 in 6 people in the United States, hunger is a reality. Many people believe that the problems associated with hunger are confined to small pockets of society, certain areas of the country, or certain neighborhoods, but the reality is much different. Right now, millions of Americans are struggling with hunger. These are often hard-working adults, children and seniors who simply cannot make ends meet and are forced to go without food for several meals, or even days. It’s time to educate ourselves about the causes of hunger in America.

Gratitude is… Do you agree with Oprah? Have you had your own experiences with being grateful and feeling better? Did you know that research shows that teens and adults are 50% less likely to struggle with depression when they are grateful?

5.9 MILLION CHILDREN LIVED IN FOOD INSECURE HOUSEHOLDS IN 2012

THAT IS 1 IN EVERY 8 PEOPLE. There are 900 million hungry people in the world today.

35% OF POOR FAMILIES ARE FORCED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN BUYING FOOD AND PAYING RENT. Last year, 5 million childhood deaths worldwide attributed to hunger.

BUT YOU CAN HELP! We are VMS can help those statistics and help those in need. Vernon is fortunate to have many places to help the hungry! However, they are in need of food. There are boxes available in each hall and I want to challenge you to fill them up! Each grade level is responsible for a different organization. 6 th - USSV 7th – Salvation Army 8 th – Church of Christ Benevolence Building

SO HOW WILL YOU SHOW YOU ARE GRATEFUL??? Throughout the month of November and December, we will see which grade level can bring the most food. The winning grade will be honored with an afternoon at the park with hotdogs! Hopefully, by blessing others.

WE HAVE SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR… Our freedom is so important and sometimes we take it for granted. Remember that someone has fought and is still fighting for our freedom right now.

Last week, we we had a veteran’s day assembly to honor those who have fought for our freedom. What are some ways that you can show your gratitude towards our military? Take this time to write a letter of gratitude to a soldier that has fought or is fighting for us.