30 Days of Gratitude – Day 7:
Express gratitude to a relative.

Expressing love and gratitude matter in life…and in death. As my father was in what were clearly his final months and weeks, he kept “pulling through,” meaning that his “final days” extended into many months…several times. The uncertainty did not allow for multiple, indefinite-ending trips for many of our family and friends. It was then that I came to treasure the realization that we were all, as I have chosen to say, “current in our expressions of love.” There was nothing that needed to be “settled,” forgiven, or said. Our love was expressed freely and often, and it made accepting my father’s death a natural part of his life…and ours. My heartfelt advice to you today? Stay current in your expressions of love and gratitude.

Take time to call, e-mail, send a card to, or buy a gift for the relative you chose to honor with your thanks today.