​By Eliana Barriga
Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer

With Thanksgiving soon to be on our doorstep, we pause to consider all we have to be grateful for – there is real power in a thankful heart. We really can’t be thankful without feeling grateful. Genuine gratitude changes us; how we look at life. It changes our attitude.

We are often exposed to a barrage of negativity as we deal with resentments, ingratitude, entitlement, health issues, loss, etc. Gratitude is an awesome tool, an ally to battle these internal/external threats that rob us of our joy. People who live in a negative state rob themselves of a most powerful experience of heartfelt praise and appreciation in their life. Amazing how gratitude eliminates the negativity.

Giving value to others fosters appreciation, which in turn becomes the trans- formative energy of gratitude that changes us on a deep level. Practicing gratitude can be a positive way to find inner peace and contentment. By choosing to be thankful for the wonderful things and people in our daily lives we become healthier and happier. It is a mindful act so simple, yet it brings a lasting happiness and an inner joy to those committed to living the good life.

Think about the people in your life who are loving and kind to you. Who has your back by looking out for you? Who has sacrificed in order to make your life better? Do the people closest to you have your best interest at heart? At the end of the day, we all have those people in our lives who add to our happiness. We should never take for granted what another does, gives and sacrifices in order for us to flourish and to be the best version of ourselves. It takes a team in life to come out a winner in the end.

Living gratefully has its rewards! Give the gift of joy that comes from loving and helping others. That’s the power of gratitude. So, take thanks beyond your Thanksgiving table this year and show your gratitude by doing something selfless today.

Happy Thanksgiving,
Eliana Barriga
​eliana@retailobserver.com

​By Eliana Barriga
Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer

​With November just around the corner, we are approaching what may be the single most important election of our lifetime. 2020 has indeed brought with it many tests and challenges. We have endured a year of challenges and fear and are currently witnessing the dismantling of our nation from within. A rigorous dismantling of morals, values, and principles is at play, as well as a great division amongst friends and loved ones over political points of view.

Let us be reminded that The Constitution of the United States of America is the supreme law of the United States. Empowered with the sovereign authority of the people by the framers and the consent of the legislatures of the states, it is the source of all government powers, and also provides important limitations on the government that protect the fundamental rights of United States citizens.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

May we never forget the men and women who gave their lives so that we might be free. Let us follow the path of righteousness and let us always be a generous and morally and ethically upright nation. May we as a people, remove corruptness, ignorance, and hatred from our hearts, healing our thoughts and actions, to embrace all who cross our path.

May those in governing positions be guided by truth, using sound judgement to make good decisions. May we as a nation uphold our constitutional law, protecting us from our enemies and lift us to a state of power to do good in the world, as the leaders of a nation of peace that we are meant to be.

It is my wish for us to be the light of the world, bestowing the great spirit of courage and strength upon humankind to all the corners of the earth. Let us join in celebration, people from every tribe, tongue, and nation — to live our lives sovereign and free. These things I pray as we stand victorious, declaring truth and understanding for all of humanity upon this earth we call home.

God bless our country and her people. Watch over us and guide us to pursue liberty, justice, and equality for all.

Let Freedom Ring!
Eliana Barriga
​eliana@retailobserver.com