Happy Thanksgiving?

So, I guess it’s like, Thanksgiving, or something. Thanksgiving is a pretty big deal here in the States. When I was living in the UK, it wasn’t as much (LOL) so I didn’t pay it much attention, save for my first year there (2015) when the International department of the university I attended set up a huge Thanksgiving spread at a Kansas City style BBQ place in London for all of the North American students. It was really nice, and I was able to introduce a couple of my dear friends there to the tradition of stuffing our faces with the traditional Thanksgiving fare. This year I have been invited to a family Thanksgiving gathering taking place this coming weekend by my dear friend, Ford. Sadly though, I am currently in the midst of a pretty awful flare, so I am going to have to wait and see if I am even able to go (from a strength and pain levels perspective). It really stinks not being able to “commit” to any plans because my health holds me hostage.

Truth be known, however, I really don’t think much about the holidays anymore. 🤷 To be honest, it has been a few years since I really gave them much thought. Even when Dad was still with me, we had both been so ill the last several years, and with me trapped upstairs and him downstairs – neither of us able to do anything – the days just sort of came and went. I guess I’ve just got in the habit of largely ignoring holidays. Admittedly, when you’re flying solo in the world and not able to go anywhere, they’re sort of “just another day. ”

With all of that being said, however, I am well and truly thankful for so many things. But… not JUST on Thanksgiving. I am thankful every day – for a roof over my head, electricity, water, food to eat (specifically food that adheres to my special nutrition protocol), clothes to wear, phone, internet, etc… never have I been more acutely aware of the importance of these items than I am now that it is a real struggle each month (living on disability alone) to make sure I hang onto each of those things. I certainly would not have been able to do so over the past year without a LOT of help from friends, and even some strangers! I have also had massive support from a dear friend locally on my physical therapy journey – getting me there, encouraging me, etc… as well as helping me get to many doctor’s appointments. I will never ever forget the generosity of these people, nor will I ever feel as though I’ve deserved it. I can only hope that I live long enough to someday be able to get myself in a better position – and to be in a place where I can pay it forward – this is VERY important to me.

I do hope that those of you who celebrate this day are able to do so in the company of family and friends. I also want you all to enjoy yourself to the fullest, with loads of good food, laughter, fun, and smiles – making lovely memories for years to come. Here’s wishing safe travels for those who are going out of town, and also wishing peace and contentment for all.

May we also take time to reflect on just how blessed we are – and to pray for or meditate upon situations in other parts of the world where that is not the case for so many. I want nothing more than for there to be peace – everywhere – for everyone… and I will never stop hoping and praying for that very thing.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone… may you all be well.