It is November, the month of thankfulness. I recently led discussions in several classrooms of first- and second-graders, children in the 6-8 year old age bracket. 

“What does it mean to be grateful?” 

A few hands were raised, ”Umm…it means to be nice??”  “Is it something about Christmas?” “I know..., if you push someone down then you should say ‘Sorry’.” 

I offered examples of gratitude, and understanding dawned on the little faces. In one class I said, “I am so grateful that we are all here together…