Happy Thanksgiving!
I sat here this morning and all the things I am grateful for began running through my brain. Suddenly I just had to sit down and write. The urge doesn't come often the days. I've been on a kick of reading instead of writing. For four years I did nothing but write and I've been catching up on all the books I'd missed.
But today is about thanks.
First and foremost I am thankful for my relationship with God and for his son Jesus Christ. I owe them everything. I thank God for my mind and the many different levels it work on; for my family and their love and support; and for saving me when I had nothing left but my eyes on Heaven.
I am thankful for growing up in a time when life was a little slower and people were a little nicer. I miss that.
I am thankful (believe if or not) for my high school and our active alumni association. Our school is gone now, closed and possibly scheduled for demolition, but the spirit that brought us state championships on and off the football field still lives through all of us Go Lancers!
I am thankful for my friends, near and far; casual and close. Every connection brings new feelings and chances to learn and grow. I hope I am a positive influence on each person that I touch.
I am thankful for my animals, large and small. Three horses, three dogs, two cats, and one hinny. They make my life full, I only want to be the person they deserve.
I am thankful for my country warts and all. No other democracy has lasted this long and I view our problems as new growing pains. We will pull through this if people remember that the government serves at the will of the people. Learn to use your vote wisely. Put principles ahead of personality.
For most of my adult life we have spent Thanksgiving together with my family, but this year is different. We are apart and I feel the miles and differences stronger than in many years. I cry but they are happy tears, if that makes any sense.
I give thanks for all the stories running around in my head. I'm about ready to sit down and sort things out so until then please keep the cacophony in my mind to a minimum.
I give thanks for my husband. He's never failed to make me laugh when I needed one the most.
I give thanks for those who've read my books, They give me hope when I'm hopelessly blocked.
And on a day like today, I give thanks for pants with elastic waistbands. Turkey and dressing and cranberry sauce. What can I say?
Also, for a million and one things that I can't even remember. I always try to give thanks and praise when something as insignificant as a great parking space comes around.
As we enter into the holiday season, may everyone find the joy and peace this time of year seems to usher in. Remember to be open to new experiences and situations. Seek the companionship of those you love and revere. But mainly, give thanks for each new day, for each day is a new opportunity for growth and reflection.
I wish a warm and happy Thanksgiving to everyone around the world.
