A Grateful Thanksgiving

While other holidays have more significant religious and jovial meanings, my favorite holiday has always been Thanksgiving. As a kid, it was because Nebraska played its old arch-rival, Oklahoma, on either Thanksgiving Day or the Friday following the national holiday. But as I’ve grown older, it’s come to mean much more.

School children learn Thanksgiving is tied to the pilgrims in the early days of colonization in America. Historically, Thanksgiving was started by George Washington during the Revolutionary War. And It was Abraham Lincoln who formalized the holiday in the middle of the Civil War, on the fourth Thursday of November. Both felt it important that during troubling times we look to the idea of appreciation and hope.

During our present global pandemic challenge, I don’t have to look very far to see the things, people, and reasons I am the luckiest man alive. A wife who I adore. Two children who make me smile. Two parents who I admire for the way in which they raised their three children. Sisters who are amazingly strong and loving women. A professional career of which I am proud. To be candid, there’s not much to feel down about. Challenges, yes. Despondency, no.

I also realize I am more fortunate than most…. but still, I believe everyone has something to feel good about.

On this holiday weekend, when you have a spare moment and it’s quiet while driving in the car, taking a walk, or just quietly contemplating life, you might take a look around and see the things you’re fortunate to have and try to show gratitude for them. And when you’re done thinking about it, my guess is you’ll feel just a little bit better overall.