They were grateful to be alive. In helping our children learn the principle of gratitude it is important that we not only help them to understand what the Pilgrims were grateful for during the original Thanksgiving, but why that holiday is relevant to our lives today. If we want to be happy today, we all must learn to practice the principle of gratitude. This can be done at bedtime, while driving in a care, or at family mealtime. This list can be posted in the child's bedroom, on the refrigerator, and can be added to at any time.
Parents can begin by stating that they are grateful for their children.
You can model gratitude by describing what is good about even a difficult situation. For example, even if you dislike your job, you could be grateful for the paycheck that helps support your family. Several years ago I drove a late-model car that I despised. I constantly whined and complained about this vehicle and wished daily for a new car. After making myself miserable for many months, I decided to practice what I preach and made a list of what I was grateful for in this beastly car.