Embracing Gratitude: Our Experience with Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message
Every so often, when the chaos of my household reaches a crescendo—think toys scattered like confetti across the living room and kids arguing over who gets to hold the lion plush—I realize we need a pause. One evening, after a particularly hectic day of balancing snacks and storytime demands, I reached for Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message by Chief Jake Swamp. It just felt right, like a warm hug for our fraying spirits.
This beautifully illustrated gem is more than just a book; it’s a gentle invitation to appreciate the world around us. Based on the Iroquois Thanksgiving Address, the message is simple yet profound: every day, we should express gratitude to Mother Earth for her bounty. As an adult, I’m often caught up in a whirlwind of responsibilities, and the reminders wrapped in its pages didn’t just resonate with my children—Emily (5) and Leo (3)—but also struck a chord in my own heart.
As we snuggled on the couch, I read the lovely lines that celebrate everything from the tallest trees to the smallest blades of grass. My children were enthralled. Emily pointed at the vibrant illustrations by Erwin Printup, Jr., commenting, “Look, Mommy! That tree looks like the big one in our backyard!” Leo, always the curious one, asked about the stars and why they, too, were included in our daily gratitude. It sparked an impromptu discussion on how every single thing in nature is connected to us, a theme I cherish in our life lessons.
One of my favorite moments was when I read, “We give thanks to the animals.” Leo giggled and announced that he was thankful for our dog, Ruby. “Can we tell her ‘thank you’ every day?” he asked, his innocent sincerity bubbling over. It was such a sweet reminder that gratitude can be as simple as recognizing the joy our pets bring us—a topic we now explore daily!
The book’s poetic writing is soothing, making it a perfect read-aloud selection for winding down. Flowing in rhythm, it feels like a lullaby—an enchanting melody that captivates little hearts. Both kids would lean in closer with each turning page, a testament to how Giving Thanks doesn’t merely narrate a story but embodies a spirit of appreciation we strive to instill in our family.
As a mom who usually fumbles through winding narratives and frequently has to repeat refrains to keep attention, this book held their engagement beautifully. There’s an undeniable magic in its message that simultaneously nurtures young minds and invites thoughtful discussion—ideal for my little ones who tend to ask “why?” a million times in a row.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message for families with children aged 3 to 7. It’s perfect for little explorers who are curious about nature, as well as those who need gentle reminders to express gratitude. Personally, we’ve added it to our nightly rotation, making it a comforting tradition to start each day with a thankful heart (even more so as Thanksgiving approaches).
If you feel the weight of hurried days to be lessened by a sweet story that flavors your family’s moments with gratitude, this could just be a delightful addition to your collection. Mother Earth is a gift we often overlook, but this book surely wraps her in love for our little ones to cherish throughout their lives.
Start your day with gratitude and inspiration! >>
