Being Thankful

Today is Thanksgiving Day in the United States.

It's a time when many families get together, eat turkey (prepared and cooked by grandparents), mashed potatoes and gravy (made by my Granddad--oh, so yummy), dressing (my sister's favorite), green bean casserole, horseradish carrot casserole (made by my stepmom--so dleicious), cranberry sauce, rolls, jello salad (usually brought by an aunt), pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie (I love both), apple pie (made by my Grammie--delicious), and other desserts. A feast!

When I was growing up, we never talked about what we were thankful for, but we all seemed to enjoy being together. My Grammie's and Granddad's home in the mountains was so welcoming. And the scrumptious aromas filtering through their home make my mouth water as I write this. There was a lot of joy and laughter.

As an adult, I always think about what I have to be thankful for: family (especially grandchildren), friends, good health, food, clothing, and shelter, our animal family, peace in our area of the world, nature, seeing the seasons change, joy and laughter, life, and the ability to help or assist others. When I pause, I know that I am truly blessed.

However, there was one particular Thanksgiving that was not joyful. My sister, Nancy, had died at age 36 a few days before Thanksgiving, after a long battle with cancer. She had two teenage sons. It was a sad time, and a hard time for everyone.

It's at this time of year that my heart feels the sadness and the loss, the love and the joy, and thankfulness for some wonderful memories.

I am most thankful for love.

What are you thankful for?

May your Thanksgiving be filled with self-care, delicious food, laughter and joy.

Know that you are loved. And as Tiny Tim said, "And may God bless us, everyone."

To Your Courageous Self!

Edie Savage-Weeks

Transformational Coach