North Four Corners News ♦ December 2022

New Book by a Neighbor Details the Impact of Gratitude

By Jacquie Bokow

We have yet another published author in our neighborhood! Last year, Michael Floissac authored the book Thank You! With Deepest Gratitude.

This “is not a traditional self-help book; rather, it is a story-driven tour through my diverse escapades as I have learned to practice gratitude in all areas of my life,” says Floissac. “Through personal stories, images, and other insights, the book explores 15 universal topics, such as nature, freedom, parents, friends, music, and time.”

Originally from the Caribbean Island of Dominica, Michael is a dad, husband, attorney, and now author. Here are some of the ways Michael practices gratitude as a family. These are concepts he thinks anyone can adapt for themselves, if they wish.

Michael Floissac and his book.

“We have designated a ‘Gratitude Jar.’ Throughout the year, as life happens and there are moments we are thankful for, we write a note and place it into the jar. The only person who knows what is on the note is the person who wrote it. Then we pick a day during the holiday season — a few good ones are Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day — to gather in a circle around the jar and read the notes as a family.”

The family also will gather in a circle (often in their pajamas) and each person will say three things they are thankful for that day. There are no rules and nothing is off limits. In addition, “various visual expressions of gratitude are posted around the house, which includes uplifting quotes or images to remind us to spread love.”

The cover of Thank You! With Deepest Gratitude.

The last section of each chapter in the book contains workbook-style questions and action items to help you explore each topic from your own perspective and put what you’ve learned into practice. These prompts can be used for individual journaling or to kickstart group discussions, should you choose to read the book with others.

“Practicing gratitude helps us to see we are not alone. Gratitude involves self-reflection and self-improvement. When you’re more grateful for certain aspects of your life, you want to take care of them and honor them.”

Thank You! With Deepest Gratitude is available where books are sold online or at Floissac’s website. You might also find one of the copies Floissac placed in the neighborhood Little Free Libraries. Thanks, Michael!

[Floissac lives on Snowy Owl Drive.] ■

Michael’s Website