Thankful in spite of it all

 

I could sit here and complain about what a shitty year this has been. I could tell you I have nothing to be thankful for this year. The loss of my mom is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through. And it has forever changed me. But, gosh, I think about how lucky I was to have her for so long when so many people I know lost their moms so much sooner. I’m incredibly thankful for that. Thankful to the universe for deciding to give me to her…that she was chosen to be my mom. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom.

 

 

 

I’m thankful for the support and love of my family through all of this. It hasn’t been easy and there have been rough times, but we are managing. We all miss her, but we are all thankful that we had such a wonderful mom, wife, grandma and Gigi in our lives.

I’m grateful for my friends, near and far, who have been so incredible through this difficult time. Friends who I can count on no matter what. Friends who are like family to me. Friends who I cherish with all my heart.

 

 

As you enjoy your Thanksgiving meal and the day filled with abundance, remember those who have so little. In this time where people are fleeing war-torn countries – people who have to leave their homes behind – many of whom have lost their belongings, their homes, and even loved ones – remember to be grateful and appreciative of everything you have. I don’t have much in the way of material possessions. But, I have more than many of these people.

Remember to be kind. Remember to be compassionate. Remember that these people are trying to get away from the same terrorists that we are fighting. Remember to not judge them by their religion, the color of the skin, or the language they speak. Remember that they too are people in need of food, shelter and a safe haven. They are human beings, just like us. Put yourself in their shoes. What would you do? Something tells me, you would do the exact same as they are. You would flee your home country, as much as you would hate to, because it was no longer the country you loved. You would get somewhere safe so your family would not fear for their lives. You would move wherever you had to so you could live without being afraid. So you could find a job and a home. So you could have a roof over your head and food on the table. So your children could once again go to school. So you could live in peace and without fear. Be thankful that you don’t have to do this. Be thankful you don’t have to live in a war-torn country. And show compassion for those who do. Stop living in fear. Start living with kindness in your heart.

 

 

I often think about what my mom would think about all that has been going on…the Paris bombing, the refugee crisis. My mom was a kind, caring person. I think she would truly feel for these refugees. I believe she wouldn’t want them turned away. She was moderately conservative so I could hear her say that yes, we should exercise caution in “letting folks in our country”, but that we shouldn’t shut the door. She would believe these refugees deserved to be safe. To have a home. She always believed in the good in people. So do I. Do you?