In a letter to Harrison Gray Otis Blake in 1865, Henry David Thoreau wrote, “I am thankful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.”
As you celebrate Thanksgiving this year, I hope you not only reflect on what you have to be thankful for – whether that means your friends and family, your health or simple pleasures – but that you find ways to remain grateful year-round.
While it can be tricky to dedicate time to appreciate the good things in life amid the hustle-bustle of our routines, there are simple steps you can take to regularly practice gratitude. Here are a few seasonal tips to get you started:
- If you can’t be together consider hosting a virtual Thanksgiving gathering
Invite your extended family and friends to dine together virtually. Sharing a meal is a powerful bonding experience. Be sure to also share all the things you’re grateful for. Even during these challenging times, I’m betting there are still good things in your life worth celebrating even from a distance. - Warm the hearts of your neighbors
Carefully prepare traditional family recipes for neighbors, especially those at higher risk of illness from COVID-19 or who are more isolated than usual, and deliver them in a way that doesn’t involve contact. Studies show that helping others enhances your own happiness and gratitude. - Make the holiday brighter for someone in need
Drop off a donation for your local food bank and help feed struggling families. It may inspire you to reflect on your own good fortune – and give you an opportunity to pay it forward.
As always, we hope that Thanksgiving Day, which falls on November 25th this year, will be a special day for friends and family. In observance, U.S. financial markets will be closed and our office will be closed on November 25th and 26th. If you need to access your account information, please use Raymond James Client Access, which is always available online.
Thank you for continuing to allow me to serve you and your family. I wholeheartedly appreciate your confidence.
Best regards,
Don V. Hershberger
Founder and President, PWM
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc own the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.