The end of November has been designated as a holiday for us all to be thankful. Family members are gathered around a table laden with food fit for a king that has been carefully prepared by family members. All the tastes and smells of this day seem to permeate the room.
On this day people who do not have family members close by can be thankful, too. They can ask someone over from a nursing home in the area and share their meal with them. It seems all are trying to be remembered this day as people volunteer to pass out the main course to the homeless at a shelter in town.
There are those that are without family members, because Americans love to move throughout the country seeking adventure and new employment opportunities. For those people it is a treat to eat this meal out at a restaurant to give a sense of unity with others on this day to share.
As we mature we find each year new things we should be thankful for even if we are advancing in age, no one need feel they are loved less then. Meals even can be brought to the door of people alone by special caring individuals. Asking a person from a nursing home to your home or apartment could be one of your best Thanksgiving days ever celebrated. Caring and listening to others, especially those that spend most of their time alone, gives each of us more genuine satisfaction that we are becoming what our parents wanted when they reminded us of the "golden rule".
Why should we all be so thankful? For one reason, we were part of this year, with all the good times, disappointments, and challenges, and we managed to touch other lives even without our knowing. By words or deeds we impart a message to friends and strangers. Just what we say and do has molded our character.
Have we been ill and then been put on the road to good health? Have we been responsible for helping someone else find the road to recovery with our understanding and patience? Just listening to a person that is hurting emotionally is a gift that is freely given that does not cost us to reach for our wallet or purse strings.
These are indeed things to be thankful for when we stop to evaluate the year. As we are seated at a table with family, new friends, or across from strangers at a restaurant, we must realize the true impact of this holiday. We must carry pleasant thoughts and actions with us a lifetime.
What about nostalgia that enters our life at this time? Yes, we are reminded of those not with us. But we should see the future like a door that is slowly opening. The more we are willing to give from the heart, the more we are a treasure to the world. Others may have left us gifts in their genes for talents that we now possess. Our feelings towards others must be nurtured in turn all will be happier and more satisfied with our lives.
Find yourself an individual to be thankful with this year, and have your best holiday ever.
1993 Carol Ann
Garretson All Rights Reserved
