Noticing the unnoticed

Almost all of us just celebrated Thanksgiving. Some may ask what there was to be thankful for, as we are now experiencing what appears to be the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many believe that it is precisely at a time like this that we should count our blessings and express our gratitude.

Last May, many in the Rhode Island Jewish community participated in the first Ten Days of Gratitude program, based on a similar program in Israel. This year, the program will begin in December as the Jewish Alliance partners with Days of Gratitude to help focus our blessings and build our resilience in the face of the current challenges.

Days of Gratitude is a free, six-month journey that helps us notice – and be grateful for – the blessings in our lives, thereby increasing our resilience and hope at a time when we need them most.

Every month from December 2020 to April 2021, participants will receive a set of activities, prompts and inspiration to guide them through a three-day gratitude journey, helping them notice and celebrate life’s blessings. These will take place around the Jewish holiday of each month – Hanukkah, Tu b’Shevat, Purim, Passover and Yom ha’Atzmaut.

Days of Gratitude will culminate in May with a worldwide celebration of gratitude in the seven days leading up to Shavuot.

You can sign up to join the global Days of Gratitude program at its website, gratitudedays.com, where you can also explore other activities and all that the program has to offer.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@jewishallianceri.org) is director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.