As another Thanksgiving nears and I am forced to realize that this holiday differs from all the others before, because this is my first Thanksgiving without Mom. The one year anniversary of my mother’s death is coming. My mother used to say that Thanksgiving was her holiday. In her heyday, no one could prepare a feast the way she could. From the gravy and cranberry sauce to the pecan pie, Mom’s care in preparing a family smorgasbord was a loving tribute to her family and a memory that I will cherish as long as I live. It’s a memory for which I am thankful.
Though Thanksgiving’s actual historic meaning is not representative of my interpretation of the day, it is my belief that there is no more opportune time than now to express your love, gratitude, and appreciation for those people in your circle who make your life better. Giving thanks can be anything from a hug or handshake of recognition to whatever your conscience feels is a suitable way of expressing your appreciation.
Even with the world in chaos and the economy in the drink, there is much to be thankful for. In the hardest of times some individuals thrive while others merely survive which is still no small accomplishment.  Maintaining a realistic yet positive perspective on one’s outlook on the future makes your life and those who you encounter more  enriched and loved.
I am thankful for:
1. Living in the United States where freedom, individuality, and independence is more than an ideal but an actual reality.
2.Having a loving wife who loves me in spite of my flaws and imperfections.
3. Going to bed with little fear and waking with the same.
4. Even after having Parkinson’s disease for over 25 years, my meds still work and I am able to function.
5. My senses and the ability to use them.
6. My family, animal companions, and friends who care about me and want to make the world a better place.
7. Reiki, which has brought peace, healing, and clarity to my life.
8. Humor for reminding me that serious is relative.
9. The opportunity to live, learn, and assist.
10. The Mute button on my television remote.
What are you thankful for this year?
Karl, you have such a way with words. Despite the absence of your mother which is a tough thing to get over I am sure she would want you to carry on in a spirit of thanksgiving pausing to remember her in a special way. Do not let the greatness of her traditions go unoticed. Celebrate her life by making a traditional dish that she did extra special. Indoing so, you honor her for the things she left behind. You are truly an inspiration and source of personal encouragement to me. Your attitude is always one that is positive and determined to accomplish that which you set your mind to doing. I am most thankful for friends like you and Angela. May God bless you both and enrich your lives this holiday season. Happy Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful reponses! I wish you and Gretchen a very Happy Thanksgiving! Be Well!
Karl, Your tribute to your mother was moving. My dad passed away a year ago and I miss him terribly. And as much as I hate living with parkinson’s, one big thing that makes me happy is that because of it, I am part of a wonderful community of friends & supporters including you & Angela, and Michael & Gretchen, and so many others. Love & best wishes to you.
I thank you for your comment and am so happy to have assisted you! Happy Thanksgiving!