The Power of Gratitude: A Reflection for Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, we find ourselves drawn to a time-honored tradition: reflecting on what we’re grateful for. While this may seem like a simple practice, it carries profound power—especially for those in challenging and demanding professions like wildland firefighting. For wildland firefighters and their families, gratitude is more than just a feeling; it’s a gateway to resilience, connection, and a life filled with meaning.

Gratitude as a Pathway to Receive More

Dr. Joe Dispenza once said, “Gratitude is the ultimate state of receivership.” Gratitude has a unique way of shifting our mindset. When we focus on what we already have—our health, our loved ones, the camaraderie of our crew—we naturally begin to notice even more blessings in our lives. It’s not just a mental exercise; studies have shown that gratitude rewires the brain to focus on the positive, fostering a deeper sense of well-being.

For firefighters, whose days are often spent confronting adversity, practicing gratitude offers a reprieve from the intensity of the job. It opens the door to receive more: more connection with family during precious R & R or time at home, more appreciation for the small joys of life, and even more support from others when we acknowledge and appreciate their efforts.

Thanksgiving: A Season of Giving and Receiving

The Thanksgiving holiday is deeply rooted in gratitude and generosity. It’s a time to give thanks not only for what we’ve received but also for the opportunity to give back. For wildland firefighters, giving is second nature. You give your time, your strength, and your courage to protect the environment, the wilderness, structures, infrastructure and others lives. Giving, with proper boundaries, doesn’t deplete us—instead, it creates space for even greater fulfillment.

When we give with an open heart, whether it’s offering kindness to a crewmate, cooking a meal for a loved one, or simply listening to someone who needs to talk, we create a cycle of positivity. Gratitude amplifies this cycle. When we express thanks for what we’ve been given or for the people in our lives, it reinforces bonds, strengthens trust, and invites even more love and kindness into our lives.

The Feeling of Being Grateful

Gratitude feels different for everyone, but it often brings a deep sense of warmth, humility, and perspective. For wildland firefighters, gratitude might come in quiet moments: the smell of rain after a fire, the hug of a child or loved one  who missed you during a deployment, or the knowledge that your work has made a tangible difference. For families, it might be the joy of welcoming a firefighter home safely or the pride in their unwavering dedication.

When we tap into that feeling, it reminds us of what truly matters. Gratitude grounds us, helping us see the beauty in the life we’re living, even amid the challenges.

How to Cultivate Gratitude this year around Thanksgiving

• Reflect on Wins: Take time to reflect on victories, big or small, from the past year. Maybe it’s a successful fire season, a new skill learned, a promotion or a moment of connection with your family.
• Share Your Thanks: Tell your crew members, family, or friends what you appreciate about them. Sometimes, a simple “thank you” can deepen a relationship more than we realize.
• Give Back: Whether through a community event, sharing a meal, or mentoring a new firefighter, giving is one of the purest expressions of gratitude.
• Start a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you’re grateful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving. It’s a small habit that can have a big impact.

A Thankful Heart, A Resilient Spirit

Wildland firefighters and your families lives are filled with sacrifices, challenges, and triumphs. Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard days, but it gives them meaning. It reminds us to cherish the good, to learn from the tough, and to lean into the love and support of those around us. This Thanksgiving, may you find joy in both giving and receiving—and may gratitude continue to guide and uplift you through the holiday season, on the fire line and beyond.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you who protect the land and the lives of others, and to the families who support you. Thank you for your bravery, your dedication, and the sacrifices you make every day. You are seen, appreciated, and deeply valued.