As Indians and Pilgrims sat down together that first Thanksgiving day, they not only gave thanks for their food and their bountiful harvest, but also for the relationships they shared with each other and with new friends. So tomorrow, before you sit down to a feast of turkey and all the trimmings, take stock of the relationships your family has nurtured over the last year. Which relationships are stronger? ...

You make decisions every day—what to eat, what to wear, where to go. If you find yourself complaining…or frequently irritated, then make the decision to be content…to be satisfied with your circumstances in life. It's not hard, but it does take practice. Next time you think of what's wrong with your situation, stop! For instance, instead of complaining because you have to mow the lawn, be thankful that you...

Sunday is Parent's Day…a day established by Congress for the purpose of "recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children." If you've had a good relationship with your mom and dad, use this day as an opportunity to thank them for one important thing they did to impact your life in a positive way. If your relationship with them has been more difficult, use it as an...

First, focus on the other person…open your posture, look them in the eyes, give them encouraging nods and acknowledging words. Second, summarize what they are saying. You might say something like, "So, what I hear you saying is such and such." Third, ask open-ended questions. Not questions that solicit just a yes or no answer. And don't use the word "why"... "why can't you…" "why didn't you…" "why aren't...

Honor them! Whether you're 5 or 50, you should honor your mother and father. How? First, pick up the phone tonight and tell them that you are thankful for the good things they did for you growing up. Second, realize that it's never too late to apologize, or forgive. Third, make it a point to enjoy their company whenever you have the opportunity. Invite them over for dinner and serve them for a change. ...

If you're looking for a way to scale back on expenses, why not commit to a credit-free Christmas this year? Resist the temptation to spend money you don't have on material things that ultimately have very little meaning, and provide very little satisfaction. The Christmas season isn't about "things," it's about relationships…. with your family, your friends, your Creator. So, cut up the cards, lock them away in...

Give your kids a quiz. Make it fun and award a prize to the one who gets the most answers right. You can use questions like: "Where was the Declaration of Independence signed? Who sewed the first American flag? And, who was the king of England during the Revolutionary War?" Do you know the answers? Well, to get them, and to find more questions for your own 4th of July quiz, go here. It's a great way to teach your...