Embracing November: A Month for Spiritual Gratitude and Guarding Against Distractions

As November begins, it’s a season traditionally set aside for gratitude and thanksgiving. This transition into a month focused on giving thanks feels like a perfect opportunity for reflection—especially after the last few days of October, which, for me, were challenging. Despite a foundation built on faith, I found myself struggling, sidetracked by anger and frustrations that felt all too familiar. It’s almost as if every time I begin to feel balanced and purposeful, forces arise to pull me back into a struggle I thought I’d conquered.

For anyone rooted in faith, there’s an understanding that life isn’t always smooth. Temptations, doubts, and negativity can sometimes creep in just when things seem to be at their best. I know I’m not alone in feeling like evil tries to find footholds in our lives, especially when we feel secure. It’s a humbling reminder that my spiritual wellness isn’t something I can afford to overlook or become complacent about. Every time I feel strong and centered in my beliefs, it’s an opportunity to double down on the things that matter most—my faith, my focus, and my resilience.

This experience has reminded me how crucial it is to guard our hearts, especially from negativity, and to remain “in the world but not of it.” It’s easy to get caught up in the words and actions of others or feel weighed down by negativity around us, but that’s exactly when we need to turn to faith and let gratitude guide us. November is a chance to start fresh, setting aside the distractions and focusing on the blessings that might be easily overlooked otherwise.

One of the most powerful steps we can take for our spiritual wellness is surrounding ourselves with people who lift us up. Staying rooted in faith, even when challenges arise, can make all the difference, but it’s harder to do when negative influences are constantly present. I’ve learned to be intentional about who I let into my inner circle, understanding that my spiritual wellness has to be my number one priority. Just like physical or mental health, spiritual health requires boundaries, too. We can’t allow others to drain our peace or take us off the path we’re called to walk.

This month, as we practice gratitude, I’ll be placing special attention on those relationships that truly bring light and encouragement, rather than distractions or negativity. I’ll work to remain mindful of staying present in the moment, anchored in my faith and focused on being a light for others, no matter the obstacles. The world may bring challenges, but it’s up to each of us to decide how we respond—by leaning into our faith, showing gratitude, and being resilient against the distractions that aim to throw us off course.

So here’s to November—a month of thanksgiving, of focusing on faith, and of staying resilient in a world filled with challenges. Let’s stay grateful and guard against the distractions that pull us away from our purpose, remembering that our spiritual wellness is not just a priority; it’s the foundation upon which everything else in our lives is built.

In gratitude and faith,
Paula Walters