It has been one month since the Buckhead Theatre was taken over by a group of men and women to hear from a small number of wonderers, innovators, and tinkerers. TEDxPeachtree 2014 Illuminate held the minds of its audience captive with new ideas in science, health, community building, and dance. Yes, talking dogs, origami in space, and leaps in cancer research have a way of grabbing your attention, but now what? We’ll have to wait another year until the next TEDxPeachtree. The cold weather is settling in and the early darkness that results from the end daylight savings time has commenced. A bit of illumination would be nice right about now.

If you are in need of some light at the end of this blustery tunnel, check out these TED talks. Guaranteed to brighten your spirit, they may even kick off your list of what you are thankful for this upcoming Turkey Day. There is nothing more energizing than the light that comes from within. These talks can help you create some inspiration for your own continued motivation.

Tania Luna’s TED@New York‘s tale of gratitude and finding value in the smallest things reminds us that you don’t need a pile of cash to feel like a millionaire. Be illuminated from her unique perspective, her journey from a small town in Russia to a homeless shelter in America. From all of ver travels Tania has been able to see the blessings we often overlook.

The truth is that caring, knowing and acting upon what other people think about us can be completely scary. Brené Brown, in her 2010 TEDxHouston talk, speaks on how to turn the concept of shame into the beauty of vulnerability and be grateful for who we really are.

Sometimes we look backward and are grateful for a stroke of luck that has come our way. In his TEDMED 2012 talk, Ed Gavagan shines a light on the moments that test us, when we beat the odds and why we should always “push back against the chaos.”

At TEDGlobal 2013, Benedictine monk Brother David Steindl-Rast teaches us about the root of all happiness – gratitude. In this lesson – take the time to see the wonderful things in your world and be present in the gift your days bring to you – Steindl-Rast gives us the key to true happiness.

What TED or TEDx talks have illuminated your lives in ways you never predicted?

Maria Pinkelton is the Communication Specialist for the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University. She lives in Decatur with her husband and son, along with a fine collection of books, craft beers and size 11 shoes.