My Facebook feed of late has been filled with a seemingly never-ending stream of inspirational quotes.
Yes, there are just as many adorable puppy photos and videos – I'm apparently friends with numerous big-hearted animal lovers.
But in between the sleepy pugs and talking huskies are photos of sunsets and fields of flowers with words of wisdom scrolled over them. I feel like either everyone is doing some serious soul-searching or they're posting not-so-subtle cries for help.
"Sometimes you have to just hang on and trust that life's storms are carrying you to better shores."
"And her heart finally told her to let go."
"The bad things that happen in our lives put us directly on the path to the best things that will ever happen to us."
Among the recurring themes, however, is gratitude (with beach scenes and rainbows in the background, of course).
"A moment of gratitude makes a difference in your attitude."
"Gratitude is the key that unlocks every door."
"The vibration of gratitude attracts more positive things into your life."
I'm all for being thankful, but I still struggle with the public display of it all on social media. Sometimes it appears shallow or insincere and even a little preach-y. I'm a little old-fashioned, I guess. And, correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't remember so many people expressing feeling "blessed" about everything before Facebook came along.
But here we are, on the eve of just the occasion to feel thankful and (ahem) blessed: Thanksgiving.
It's mainly become a weekend of turkey and stuffing and over-eating, usually with more family members than usual around the table. But in between the potatoes and pie, I think most of us do take a moment to feel, if not express, a little appreciation.
I know I'm thankful every day that I have a loving, kind spouse and that my children are healthy and happy. I'm also thankful to have a warm home and food on the table and that we live in a country that's not at war and is generous enough to welcome those who are fleeing frightening and unstable homelands.
As Canadians, there's much we take for granted, like freedom and clean air and breathtaking vistas from coast to coast.
And of course, we're all thankful Donald Trump isn't the potential leader of our country. But I digress…
As women, Canada is also a pretty great place to be. For the most part, females are valued and gender equality is a priority. Heck, we even have a Prime Minister that formed a gender-balanced cabinet for the first time.
So it might not show on my Facebook feed, but I am thankful and filled with gratitude. I really am.
And fine, I might even feel a little blessed