You can make a difference in the lives of others -- in your family, school, church, community, and world! The world needs you -- your ideas, your compassion, and your spiritual outlook. And, it's never too late to start contributing. The best gifts are those from the heart.

This November in the United States, we have three important days to remember: Nov. 2, Election Day; Nov. 11, Veterans Day; and Nov. 25, Thanksgiving Day. Let's take this opportunity to express our thanks for the people who have helped lead, defend, and found our nation. And even if you don't live in the U.S., you can still express thanks for all the good that your friends, family, and fellow country mates and leaders have done. Most importantly, we all want to express our gratitude for God. The Bible reminds us:

Write thank you letters (letters of gratitude) to people who have positively affected your life. You can write a letter, send an email, make a phone call, or tell them in person. It is truly wonderful to receive a thank you letter. Your gratitude can make a huge difference in others' lives.

1. Thank local, state, or nationwide government officials for the work and service they have done for your country.
2. Thank a veteran of the military for defending your country. Perhaps the veteran is a family member. Try to get the letter to them by Veteran's Day.
3. Thank your parents, siblings, and other relatives for all that they have done to make your life safe, loving, fun, disciplined, rewarding, and on and on. You can even make this a family event and have family members write thank you notes to each other and read them on Thanksgiving Day.
4. Thank your teachers, principals, custodians, clerical staff, and other school individuals for what they have done to make your time at school productive, safe, enjoyable, and progressive.
5. Thank Sunday school teachers or others in your church home who have made a difference in your life.
6. Write a letter to the editor or an opinion article for your school or local newspaper focusing on what you appreciate about your nation.
   1. Thank the people who founded your country and explain what difference their sacrifices have made in your life;
   2. Express your gratitude for the freedoms you enjoy;
   3. Share insights about what freedom means to you;
   4. Encourage others to learn more about their nation's history;
   5. Encourage others to maintain freedom.

Enjoy writing these letters of thanksgiving.