I’m shocked. Wikipedia lumps ‘grateful’ (a word I use daily) in with gratitude, thankfulness and appreciation, collectively labeling them emotions.

Well, then. I guess I’ll have to haul out the 25 lb. 2500-page Random House Dictionary, Second Edition, Unabridged, a gift from my now departed Mother in Law, a librarian, who believed all arguments could be solved by the dictionary.

I always wanted to ask her how many couples she knew who fought over word etymology. With tongues-in-cheek, Cliff and I call it the Peace Maker.

The holiday season brings out the sap in me. I love the sights, smells, music and spirit. This year, there is much to be grateful for and the Peace Maker is going to help me articulate my emotions.

• I am warmly and deeply appreciative that I work with folks who want to change the world, move the needle, or make small differences every day.
• I am honored to share benefits to those interested through experiences and conversations.
• It is gratifying and satisfying knowing that there are visionaries and risk takers who put the common good above self-interest.
• It is pleasing to the mind when I think of the thousands of generous folks that know life isn’t always fair and make significant donations to keep families from slipping into homelessness.

OK.  I put my emotions on the table.  What about you?  What are you grateful for?