Just because I am not celebrating Thanksgiving this week doesn’t mean I am not thankful. I will admit, I wish I was in Virginia celebrating it this year, partly because they are getting snow and man, I miss me a good snow storm.
But I digress.
I believe that everyone, everywhere has something to be thankful for. Some people have more to be thankful for than others, and some much less, but for every single being on this planet there is something they are grateful to have/be/do. I also always find it a very good practice to be thankful for all my blessings when I’m down. It puts my situation into perspective. I am better off than a lot of people and rich in ways that matter most to me. This is the important lesson of giving thanks: understanding one’s wealth in life has little to do with money. (Not everyone believes that, of course, but to each their own.)
I’ve been down a lot lately and writing about that rather than the good things that happen, although at times it feels there is little good happening. So to counteract all the sadness, I’m powering through, fighting the good fight, not letting the man get me down, or what the hell ever. I’m being thankful.
What am I thankful for? you ask. Here’s my Top 10 in no particular order:
- The ability to work from home when I’m unwell and a boss understanding enough to allow me to do what I need to to take care of myself (mentally and physically). (This is particularly relevant this week!)
- Family and friends who understand some of what I go through and let me know they care about me, even when they are far, far away.
- Music that helps me cope with anything and everything.
- Books that help me escape and imagine other worlds and places.
- Having a house to live in that, while not perfect to us, is more than adequate for our actual basic needs as human beings.
- Being able to buy a brand new house and choose the luxuries to go in it.
- Being healthy enough to not require medical attention, even when dealing with bad colds.
- Having enough money not to worry about paying bills or buying food or necessities (like cold medicine!).
- My husband for infinite things, but mainly existing and being my partner.
- Strength to deal with my depression, so far without medication or doctors.
I mean when it all comes down to it, I have a nice house, more than enough clothes, food, water and money. It’s pretty easy to get swept up in material things and commercialism, especially at this time of year! I’m not immune – I’m reminding my husband almost daily that I only want one thing for my upcoming birthday and he better get it right… but in the grand scheme it’s not the most important thing is it? (No, hubby, that is NOT an out! ;))
My point is, if you can say you have a house and clothes and food and stuff, consider yourself blessed. If you have loving friends and family, consider yourself blessed. If you are healthy and able bodied, consider yourself blessed.
Happy Thanksgiving to those of you celebrating it tomorrow and Happy Thursday to those who aren’t! 🙂