With Thanksgiving upon us, it's a perfect time to think about gratitude. As author Amy Collette says: "Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness. It's the spark that lights a fire of joy in your soul."

I have so much to be thankful for. In truth, I probably don't acknowledge this often enough. In the midst of our daily challenges (or disappointments, irritations, heartaches, etc), it's all too easy to feel cynical. It's too easy to ignore our blessings and let the bad overshadow the...