My parents taught it by word and deed: No matter what, there’s always something to be thankful for.

Gratitude is a way of life, for health, healing, and happiness (we know this). Gratitude is a mindset and lifestyle to cultivate (we know this). And daily gratitude transforms (we know this, too).

I like having a day that can stop me in my tracks with a confrontation of gratitude. Regardless of an outset of nefarious history and injustice innate in the holiday — for what it is today, I must say: its healthy gratitude outcomes are unmistakable.

Thank you, Thanksgiving.

So here’s to a Happy Thanksgiving to all — with a special word to those in my circle…

To all in my circle who consider the sum total of possibilities — creating in joy, digging deep into imagination, investing in adventures, and living in ingenuity — I am thankful for you.

To all in my circle who spark creativity — recognizing the big picture essence of story and humanity, approaching creativity challenges and collaboration with grace and tact, and reciprocating thoughtful intention and the creative word with generosity — I am thankful for you.

To all in my circle who believe the best, act in kindness, reach for connection, and respond in veracity and authenticity — I am thankful for you.

To all in my extended circle who are allies, who have been a joyful part of my past in a way that composed a timeless kevlar thread, with merit infused into the hues and textures of my everyday — I am thankful for you.

And to all in my circle who have connected with unmistakable, unambiguous, genuine, and intentional synergy to remain in a warmhearted place within my life — I am thankful for you.

Erin M. Brown, MA, MFA, is the author of 10 books (fiction, nonfiction, academic, children’s) and has been a professional writer/editor of books for 20+ years, helping authors master story writing through seminars, coaching, and dozens of online courses. She has a terminal degree in Creative Writing, Genre Fiction, and has been a content writing expert/marketing director and storyteller for websites, videos, and multiple online programs for 20+ years — creating multiple complete educational online programs. Erin was also a university writing instructor two times and Lead Writing Curriculum developer for a third university, as well as developing multiple college writing curricula and programs. Speaking to audiences on writing since the 80’s, Erin’s a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA), Authors Guild (AG), Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and Romance Writers of America (RWA). Erin has also worked with Hollywood A-Listers in story development, judged numerous book and anthology contests, and has been a first and second tier judge for the Vivians/Ritas with RWA. Coffee mug or espresso in hand and surrounded by her collies, Erin writes from Michigan, USA.