Phew! What a year it’s been so far! COVID-19, race riots, friendships damaged by political beliefs, the South battered by hurricanes and floods. Next year, in parts of the country, the locusts descend – we probably won’t see “normal” until 2022! Many Americans have suffered greatly this year and sadly, the suffering will continue especially since COVID-19 will hang around for a good while yet according to the experts.

However, if you’re reading this, you have much to be thankful for – you’re alive and able to read these words for starters! I can’t possibly know your individual situations however, I believe if you look deep inside yourself and around you, you will find things to be thankful for.

This Thanksgiving is unlike any other we have experienced. Family gatherings are being put on hold because of the coronavirus, some of us will be spending the day alone. Nonetheless, take a moment to thank your God, Higher Power, or whomever you give credit for the universe for the blessings you do have. Today is a day for Americans to focus on the positive, to look forward to brighter days ahead, and to put the traumas of the past behind you.

I remember one Thanksgiving, sitting alone with my cat in a one bedroom apartment. I cooked some chicken, Stove Top stuffing, instant mashed potatoes, a vegetable, and had some cranberries on the side. I sat with my cat, Cuga, eating my dinner while watching football (I did share some of my chicken 😊). I may have been alone that year but I still had plenty to be thankful for and spoke with my out of town relatives on the phone; as long as we have people or even a treasured pet in our lives we’re never truly alone.

My wish for all of you today is health, happiness, and an end to any difficulties you may be having whether you celebrate Thanksgiving or not. One of the things I’m thankful for is that I am able to send these words to you today.

Happy Thanksgiving!