Writer Brittany Ackerman recently shared what she calls a “rapid-fire” writing prompt just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. I found this exercise helpful — not only as a way to practice writing but also as a way to practice gratitude. Because gratitude is what Thanksgiving is all about, right?
In her post — “Rapid-Fire Gratitude | Writing Prompt” — she writes:
Write a rapid-fire list of 24 (because we are closing out 2024!) things you are grateful for. Choose 1 (or more) from your gratitude list and free-write a scene, a poem, dialogue– whatever comes to mind.
There you go. If you’re anything like me, you’ll think at the outset of this freewriting exercise that coming up with 24 things to be grateful for is a piece of cake (or pumpkin pie). But, reader, it’s harder than you think.
But don’t give up. Keep at it until you get a cornucopia full of gratitude. And then, get cooking — er, I mean, write!
Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay
Andy writes! 
“Andy writes!” is on my list–thanks for the prompt!
What a wonderful idea to combine creative writing with gratitude, especially as we approach Thanksgiving! Brittany Ackerman’s “rapid-fire” prompt is such a refreshing way to reflect on the year and celebrate the small and big joys in life. Listing 24 things we’re grateful for feels like a perfect way to honor 2024—it’s like a time capsule of appreciation.
I love how this exercise encourages both spontaneity and deeper reflection. Picking one item to expand on through a scene or poem adds a creative layer, turning gratitude into something tangible and expressive. It’s a great reminder that gratitude isn’t just a feeling but can also inspire art, connection, and storytelling.
This prompt feels especially meaningful now, as the holiday season often reminds us to pause and acknowledge what truly matters. Whether it’s people, moments, or even the quiet everyday things, there’s so much to appreciate. Thanks for sharing this—I’m excited to try it and see where the words take me! Happy writing, and happy Thanksgiving!