Gratitude on Thanksgiving: A Journey of Thankfulness and Hope

While the festive season of Thanksgiving brings together families and friends in celebration, for some, it is a time marked by profound gratitude for the trials and triumphs of the past year. This article shares a personal journey of thankfulness and resilience during the Thanksgiving holiday of 2022, as expressed by a dedicated massage therapist and craftsman.

Gratitude in the Face of Loss

As I reflect on this year's Thanksgiving, my heart is filled with a mix of joy and sorrow. I am most thankful for my health, which has allowed me to carry on with my work as a massage therapist and my passion for crafting Native American-inspired works of art. But there is a bittersweet gratitude that comes with the memories of the past year.

Family and Support - One of the most profound forms of thankfulness is the love of my life and dear husband. Though we had to say goodbye to him on December 2023, their love and the 47 years and 31 days we shared enhance the meaning of every holiday. His passing, despite the pain, brought me closer to my children and friends, and their unwavering support during this difficult time has kept my spirits up.

Children: A Lifeline - My dear son has become a source of strength and light in my life. No matter how busy his day, he always ensures that I am okay. I am grateful for the time we spend, even if it's just a few words or a quick check-in. His love and support have been invaluable during the long and trying year.

Community and Resilience

Thankful for Community - This Thanksgiving, I am also grateful for the community that has stood by me. Friends who have let me cry, scream, and express my feelings about the unfairness of life. These individuals have shown me that life goes on, even in the toughest of times. We have been through shared experiences and know that together, we will rebuild and recover.

Natural Disasters and Recovery - The recovery from Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Milton may be slow, but I am grateful that my little corner of Florida is starting to heal. Our resilience and strength are evident as we prepare to come back better than before.

Everyday Gratitude

Basic Needs - Having a roof over my head and a table full of food is a baseline that I am deeply thankful for. Even though I was initially concerned about the availability of tomatoes at the grocery store, I found a variety of other items to be grateful for, including celery, carrots, olives, potatoes, turkey, ham, gravy, and brown n' serve rolls. My sister is also bringing delicious deviled eggs and pies to enhance the meal.

Unexpected Blessings - Small moments of worry, such as the concern about a lost cat in the attic and the potential for a long flight for my children, are also moments of thankfulness. I am grateful for the outcome of both—knowing that the cat is still alive and that my children will be safe.

As the holiday approaches, I am filled with a range of emotions. I hope that my sister's journey safe and that she does not encounter any deer. However, no matter the outcome, I am grateful for the warmth of community, the love of family, and the resilience that defines the human spirit.

Finally, as we sit down to share this meal, may we all find ways to express our gratitude for the blessings in our lives and hold onto hope for a brighter tomorrow.