There is an old French proverb that says, “Gratitude is the heart’s memory.”

Last week I talked about being thankful. It was Thanksgiving, a time when we stop to focus on and be grateful for what we have. We indulge in fellowship and food. We also reach out more to help the less fortunate by giving time or money to shelters or soup kitchens.

It seems appropriate that our time of thankfulness for what we have should be followed by Christmas, a time of giving. Frank A. Clark, author of “The Country Parson,” is quoted as saying, “If a fellow isn’t thankful for what he’s got, he isn’t likely to be thankful for what he’s going to get.”

Fill your heart with memories that generate that wonderful feeling of gratitude. It will brighten your day and spill over to everyone around you.

What is it you are most grateful for?