Could we start a movement to rename this day “Gratitude-giving”? I like the idea of giving thanks. I love the idea of showing gratitude.

I found this quote from Swiss philosopher Henri Frederic Amiel:

“Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude.

“Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness

“Thankfulness may consist merely of words.

“Gratitude is shown in acts.”

The quality I love best about the members in my Vistage group is their acts of gratitude.

A few examples of some, but not all, of those acts:

One couple who seized an opportunity to double the size of their company was struggling with the new roles and responsibilities of the members of their team. One of the CEOs in the Vistage group volunteered to facilitate a meeting for the company to help define those roles. He gave up his time and offered his ability as a leader and facilitator.

Another member of our group is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Ventura County. Habitat scheduled a fund-raiser in which teams donated $2,500 and their time to build a playhouse for the families of active military members. It took about 20 minutes for me to raise the money in my group and several members came to the Playhouse Build (on a Saturday) to lend their hands and time.

I think it is a wonderful practice to pause on this holiday and reflect on what you are thankful for. But it is even more beautiful to show that appreciation in whatever acts you think are appropriate.