As Thanksgiving draws near, many of us pause to reflect on what we’re thankful for. But gratitude isn’t meant to be a once-a-year guest at our table—it’s meant to live with us every day.
Walker Larson, in his article “Planting Virtue: How to Raise Grateful Kids” writes that “Thankfulness is more than just good manners—it’s the foundation for good character, health, and happiness.” He’s absolutely right. Gratitude doesn’t just make us polite—it makes us strong, centered, and joyful.
The Power of Gratitude
When we count our blessings, something powerful happens. Our focus shifts from what’s missing to what’s meaningful. Grateful people are proven to sleep better, stress less, and smile more. They enjoy stronger relationships, better health, and deeper peace of mind.
Gratitude changes the lens through which we see life—it turns ordinary moments into miracles and challenges into opportunities for growth.
A Heritage of Hope and Gratitude
For me, gratitude is also rooted in heritage. My family’s story began with courageous men and women who emigrated from Europe to America—people who left behind everything familiar in search of freedom, safety, and opportunity.
They arrived with little more than faith, determination, and a belief that tomorrow could be brighter. Their legacy of perseverance and gratitude shaped generations to come. They taught us that blessings aren’t measured in wealth, but in love, resilience, and community.
The Women Who Modeled Gratitude
My mother, Romayne Leader Frank, was the granddaughter of European immigrants who believed deeply in education and self-reliance. She studied law while raising two children, scheduling her classes so she’d be home when we returned from school. We’d sit together at the dining room table—Mom with her law books, my brother and I with our homework. Whenever we struggled, she’d smile and say, “How about opening your book and looking for the answer?”
That simple phrase still echoes in my life—it taught me curiosity, confidence, and gratitude for the ability to learn.
My grandmother, Mary Chernick Leader, carried her parents’ immigrant values forward. She worked as a secretary, led a women’s stock club to teach financial independence, and volunteered with the Braille Society. I’ll never forget reading aloud to her at age seven, earning a tiny reward—a bite of chocolate and a sip of Coca-Cola—for each page. She made learning sweet in every sense of the word.
My mother-in-law, Pearl Neustein Berger, was the sixth of eight children born to European immigrants who taught honor, hard work, and faith. Widowed young, she raised two children on her own, working long hours at B. Altman’s Department Store in New York City. She insisted her children study, serve others, and attend religious services every week. Her quiet strength and endless generosity still inspire me. She was five feet one inches tall and to me she was one of the tallest and strongest women I have known because of her caring and commitment to her family, friends and helping others.
Pearl Berger’s sister, my Aunt- in- Law, Helen Neustein shared that same spirit of gratitude and grace. She was the 7thchild of the family. Helen also worked at B.Altman’s Department store in the shoe department. She was a wonderful person with a very big heart raised with the values of honor and respect just like her sister Pearl. My husband, Allan, remembers her playing baseball with him as a child. She was always patient and kind. Helen was also about 5 foot one inch tall but she seemed 6 feet tall because of her caring and commitment to her family, friends, and clients.
These remarkable women—each descended from immigrants who braved new beginnings—taught me that gratitude isn’t about possessions; it’s about perspective.
How to Live and Model Gratitude
Gratitude grows stronger when it’s shared.
· Start your day with reflection. Write down three things you’re grateful for.
· Acknowledge someone weekly. A note, a call, or a simple “thank you” can make a difference.
· Honor your roots. Remember the people who came before you and the sacrifices they made so that you could live the life you have today.
· Teach by example. Model gratitude for children and loved ones—praise effort, kindness, and integrity more than achievement.
When ungrateful attitudes appear—especially in younger generations—use it as a teaching moment. As Dayton Children’s Hospital notes, helping children handle disappointment builds strength and appreciation.
The Ripple Effect of Thankfulness
Living a life of gratitude is more than good manners—it’s transformational. Grateful people are more creative, compassionate, and courageous. They attract positivity, deepen relationships, and face adversity with calm confidence.
Gratitude is a magnet for joy. It reminds us that every sunrise is a gift, every friendship is a blessing, and every challenge carries a lesson.
So, this Thanksgiving—and every day after—pause to remember where you came from and who helped you get here. The courage of your ancestors, the kindness of your loved ones, and the opportunities before you are all reasons to give thanks.
Count your blessings. Share your gratitude. And live your thanks—boldly and joyfully—every single day. © 2025 Madeline Frank
Madeline Frank, Ph.D., DTM is an Amazon.com Best Selling Author, sought after speaker, business owner, teacher, researcher, and concert artist. She helps businesses and organizations “Tune Up their Businesses”. Her innovative observations show you the blue prints necessary to improve and keep your businesses successful. She writes a monthly newsletter “Madeline’s Monthly Article & Musical Tips” and a monthly radio show “Madeline’s One Minute Musical Radio Show”. She has just published her new book “Leadership On A Shoestring Budget”. Her book is available at Amazon.com on Kindle or as a physical book. If you need a speaker or video speaker contact Madeline at: mfrankviola@gmail.com
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