It’s a tradition at our Thanksgiving dinner to go around the table and share with the family what it is we’re most thankful for. So this year I’m going to post just a few of the many treasures in my life for which I am grateful.
My health
I’m not in perfect shape. And I could definitely use a trip to the dentist. But overall, I’m not doing too shabby. Hopefully all the chocolate I’ll eat between now and December 31st won’t have too big an effect. The ability to see, touch, taste, hear and feel won’t be taken for granted. I count my blessings every day I am able to: wake up, breathe, get out of bed on my own, walk to the kitchen, fix my breakfast, eat, shower, listen to music, watch movies and feel my daughter’s hugs. Thank you, universe! (And DNA.)
My daughter
Readers of this blog (and my Facebook and my Twitter) are probably nauseated by the love fest I throw for my kid but she really is the best of me: my biggest contribution to society. The road hasn’t always been smooth, and I’m sure I’ve screwed her up for life in at least two ways; however, I make up for my mistakes with unconditional love. I respect who she is, accept her differences, and look forward to every day I get to watch her grow as an individual. Thank you, Elysia!
My mother
No, we don’t have the best relationship. No, we probably won’t ever resolve our issues. But I am thankful for her nonetheless. She showed me what strength and determination really are. She taught me how to be an independent thinker and leader. She showed me how to be a successful virtual assistant. She taught me to never give up on my dreams. Without her support I definitely would’ve had a much more difficult road to where I am now. Thank you, mom!
There is a lot I treasure in my life – my sister, nature and the arts to name just a few – but for now, for this year, the above are my top three. What are you most thankful for?
Photo credit: Colleen Proppe (Be sure to check out Colleen’s web site and blog as well.)
I think when it comes down to it, most people would have a list quite similar to yours. So far as I’m concerned it comes back to family, friends and health. No amount of material things can make up for not having someone in your life to share it with. While these things may be nice, I don’t think that, in the end, we will look back on our lives and be more grateful for the stuff we have than the people we have loved… Nice post, Leah!
Thanks, Laura!
I just wish more people would realize it a lot sooner than they normally do because they would be so much happier now. It seems like many folks don’t grasp the truly important “things” until they’re forced to by sickness, job loss, death of a loved one, old age, natural disasters, and so on.
I’m a sucker for wanting everyone to find joy and passion as early as possible and cherishing it daily. That probably seems kinda odd coming from someone who enjoys gory movies and hideously freaky novels 😉 Just chalk it up to me being a Gemini 😀
Lovely post. I agree wholeheartedly.
I hear about it quite a bit from my teenager that children she knows get all this “stuff” (in this economy, no less!) but are miserable and disruptive individuals who love nothing better than to spread it around. I suspect the parents substitute money for time and love. So sad.
I’m thankful my kids don’t get everything they “want,” but get what they need. Yes, we have our rough patches, but my kids know they are loved.