Thank You

Last Thursday I participated, like most of you did, in the great American tradition – stuffing my body with more delicious foods than I should have, talking with my family about what’s going on in our lives and the world, and napping in the recliner while “watching” football games.

Of course that’s not really the tradition is it?

The tradition and true reason for celebrating Thanksgiving is to do just that – give thanks. I won’t go into a Thanksgiving history lesson here.

The last few years have been challenging for many people in this country and throughout the world.  The number of people without jobs in the US is staggering.  Many of those with jobs live under the constant stress and pressure that their job may not exist tomorrow.  The financial strain put on most families as a result of the weakened economy over the last few years is significant.  Overall, we are in unchartered waters and struggling to swim.

Yet we have much to be thankful for.  I was reminded of this from my three-year-old son.  While having a family meal the day before Thanksgiving, he reached out his hands and stated, “we need to pray and give thanks”.  We of course asked him to lead the prayer – and he reminded us of what’s important in our lives.

He said thanks for each person in our family individually; for the health of our family members, specifically noting those who had not been well; for the food we were eating and the home we live in.  Out of the mouths of babes – right?

He reminded us that within our busy and stress-filled lives, we must take time to remember and be thankful for the important things.  It certainly was a great reminder for me.  I hope it was for you too.

Here is a list of some of the things I am most thankful for:

1.  My family

2.  My business and all our employee partners and association partners

3.  My friends

4.  The health and well being of those closest to me

Respond to this blog to share the things you and your family are thankful for this year.