November was Gratitude Month and an opportunity to reflect on those things in our lives that we are grateful for. Joshua Brown, Ph.D, and Joel Wong, Ph.D, from Indiana University, shared in their 2017 research that gratitude helps us to improve our mental health. Over 55 percent of adults surveyed by Parade magazine (Sept. 27) noted they are suffering mental health challenges during the pandemic.
Members of the Avalon group of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints were asked in a Facebook live message broadcast from Salt Lake City, Utah, by church President Russell M. Nelson, a retired physician, to consider the healing power of gratitude for our physical, mental and spiritual health, which are much needed during the pandemic. President Nelson asked us to create a social media post of gratitude for seven days through Thanksgiving, expressing our gratitude for family, friends, co-workers and other people and areas in our lives.
On Nov. 14, Avalon resident Elisa Estela Carrillo and her family were very grateful as she was baptized at a relative’s pool, despite the 60 degree water, by Elder Pilling who, with his companion Elder Anderson, are the new missionaries now residing in Avalon. When asked what she thought about the experience, Elisa Estela said “I feel good!” As we share significant experiences with others, we will feel the relief we need during these trying times.
