Gratitude Through The Chaos: A Thanksgiving Reflection
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Time to read 6 min
Thanksgiving isn’t always picture-perfect. Maybe the turkey is dry, the mashed potatoes are lumpy, or someone brings up that family debate at the dinner table (you know the one). Maybe the kids are running wild, the kitchen feels like a battlefield, or you’re just plain exhausted from everything life has thrown at you.
But even in the chaos, there’s beauty. This post is a reminder that gratitude doesn’t require perfection. It simply invites presence—even in the messy, complicated, deeply human moments of life.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Finding Gratitude in the Imperfections
“Gratitude doesn’t demand perfection It finds peace in the mess”
Today is Thanksgiving—a day when many of us gather around tables filled with delicious food, surrounded by the laughter of loved ones, and reflect on the blessings in our lives. It’s a day to pause, breathe, and remember what truly matters.
But let’s be real—Thanksgiving isn’t always picture-perfect. Maybe the turkey is dry, the mashed potatoes are lumpy, or someone brings up that family debate at the dinner table (you know the one). Maybe the kids are running wild, the kitchen feels like a battlefield, or you’re just plain exhausted from everything life has thrown at you.
Still, amidst the chaos, there’s a quiet beauty in the imperfections. Gratitude through the chaos isn’t about waiting for things to be perfect. It’s about finding joy and appreciation in what is, even when it’s messy.
A Mix of Emotions Is Okay
For many, today is a time of joy and connection. But for others, this holiday carries a bittersweet tone. Some may be facing their first Thanksgiving without a loved one. That empty chair at the table? It can weigh heavy on the heart.
To those feeling the ache of loss, know this: it’s okay to feel it all. It’s okay to laugh while you grieve. It’s okay to celebrate while still missing someone deeply. Gratitude through the chaos means allowing joy and sorrow to exist together.
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring the hard parts of life—it’s about holding space for all of it. The joy, the pain, the hope, the heartache. It’s remembering the love that was shared, cherishing the memories that remain, and letting yourself feel everything that comes with being human.
The Lessons That Shape Us
As I reflect on my own journey, I’m reminded of the lessons I’ve learned about resilience and gratitude. Life hasn’t always been easy. There were seasons of struggle, heartbreak, and uncertainty. There were moments when I honestly didn’t think I had the strength to keep going.
But if those moments taught me anything, it’s this: even on the hardest days, there’s always something to be thankful for—a small glimmer of light in the darkness. Gratitude through the chaos is often what helps carry us through.
The Little Things Matter Most
Gratitude doesn’t have to come from big, life-changing moments. In fact, it’s usually found in the small, quiet details that are easy to overlook.
This Thanksgiving, I’m choosing to celebrate those little things:
A child’s laughter that fills the house with warmth
The love of a partner who stands by me through every challenge
The quiet moments of reflection that remind me how strong I really am
The comfort of a cozy blanket and a hot drink on a cold day
The unexpected check-in from a friend when I needed it most
“ Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart ”
The Power of Community and Connection
Today, I’m also reflecting on the power of community. Whether it’s family around the table or a message from someone who cares, relationships are truly the heart of life.
In my journey—through personal struggles, parenting, building a business, and healing—there have been so many people who’ve lifted me up. Maybe they didn’t even realize it at the time, but their kindness made all the difference. Gratitude through the chaos includes being thankful for the people who walk with us through it all.
“The people who stand by you in the chaos are the ones who matter most”
Shifting Focus: What’s Still Right
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s missing or what’s gone wrong. The demands of life can feel overwhelming, and sometimes it feels like we’re barely keeping our heads above water. But today, let’s take a moment to shift our focus.
What if we looked at what’s still right?
Maybe it’s the simple fact that you woke up this morning. Maybe it’s the roof over your head, the food on your plate, or the people who love you. Maybe it’s the fact that you’re still standing, still fighting, still dreaming.
Gratitude through the chaos doesn’t erase life’s challenges, but it helps lighten the load.
Gratitude Is a Choice
Let’s not forget—gratitude isn’t just a feeling. It’s a choice. A choice to look for the good even when things are hard. A choice to find hope even when we’re hurting. A choice to be present, even when it feels easier to check out.
If you’re reading this, know that I’m truly grateful for you. Whether you’ve been following my journey from the beginning or just found your way here, your support means everything. Every like, every comment, every kind word—it all reminds me why I do this.
This season, I’m especially thankful for the opportunity to share not just a business, but a mission—a space to empower, uplift, and connect. And I’m so excited for what’s coming next: new designs, meaningful collections, and a continued focus on mental health awareness.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough”
Final Thoughts
So today, I invite you to celebrate the perfectly imperfect moments that make life beautiful. Whether your Thanksgiving is loud and chaotic or quiet and reflective, know that you are seen. You are appreciated. And you are not alone.
Take a moment to pause. Breathe. Say thank you—for this day, this moment, this life. Reflect on the love you’ve given and received, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the dreams still in your heart.
And don’t forget to savor the little joys of today: the smell of pumpkin pie, your favorite holiday song, or that familiar story shared for the hundredth time.
From my family to yours—Happy Thanksgiving. May your day be filled with love, laughter, healing, and maybe a little too much pie.
Summary
Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, reflection, and finding gratitude in the small things. Whether this season feels joyful or heavy, there’s always something worth holding onto.
Here’s what I’m choosing to be thankful for today:
The beautifully chaotic reality of family life
Moments of quiet that remind me how far I’ve come
The strength it takes to keep showing up, even on hard days
People who show up with kindness when it matters most
The opportunity to turn pain into purpose through community and connection
Gratitude isn’t a highlight reel—it’s a mindset. And even in the mess, there’s so much worth celebrating.
YOUR TURN
I’d love to hear from you. What are you holding space for this Thanksgiving? Is there something small you're especially grateful for right now? Scroll down and drop it in the comments—whether it’s messy, meaningful, or somewhere in between. Your story matters, and you never know who might need to hear it.
The Author
Hey there! Im Adrianna, mom of three, foster parent, and the creator of Wilde and Untamed. After my daughter’s cancer diagnosis flipped our world upside down, I found healing through creating. Now, I share my journey to remind others they’re not alone—and that even in the darkest seasons, there’s still light to be found.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How can I celebrate the holidays while grieving or struggling?
Give yourself permission to feel it all. Grief and joy can exist at the same table. Honor your pace, your memories, and whatever feels right for you this season.
What are simple ways to practice gratitude during tough seasons?
Start small. A warm drink, a deep breath, a moment of quiet. Even writing down one thing you’re thankful for can help shift your focus gently toward hope.
What if I don’t feel grateful this Thanksgiving?
That’s more common than you think. Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the hard stuff—it’s about acknowledging both the mess and the meaning. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions and still be thankful for small things.
FEELING ALL THE FEELS THIS SEASON? YOU’RE NOT ALONE.
Whether your Thanksgiving is filled with joy, grief, chaos—or all of the above—your emotions are valid, and your peace matters. Our Mental Health Collection is here to remind you to honor your heart, give yourself grace, and find comfort in the perfectly imperfect moments.
