Better late than never! I actually wrote this Wednesday night, but then things got a little busy 'round the kitchen. Sorry for that. But, I’m glad I get to write you on Thanksgiving. 2015 has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging years of my life, both personally and professionally. Yet, here I am, writing, with a heart full of thanks.

Pilgrims had different kinds of problems. While I struggle with relationships, picking the ideal career, and choosing between a beige or grey rug--the first Americans worried if they’d have enough supplies to last the winter. In comparison, first-world-problems seem petty, self-indulgent, and trivial. I’m not an immigrant seeking religious freedom from a tyrannous government that doesn’t represents my morals. I’m just a lucky son, brother and friend.

Our daily struggles, are of course, quite real. But, when I think about them, I feel embarrassed, because I have an embarrassing amount to be grateful for. Shame we need a holiday to remind us of such a fact, but at least we do take the day.

Where To Look

To be a better appreciator, you gotta practice looking in the right spots. The world is riddled with violence, terror, injustice, oppression, aggression, and hate. So, where's the good? Where does one begin to look for peace? The universe contains billions of stars and planets, to which we are but dust in the greater scheme of things. How do you find meaning?

Think about your table today. Envision the smiles, food, camaraderie, amongst friends, relatives, neighbors, and strangers. It’s rare days like Thanksgiving, that if we’re lucky, we can forget about ourselves for a moment. We can ignore the small rocks in our shoes and just enjoy being here. Gratitude silences the cry for more. Bask in the stillness.

Summary

If I can leave you with one thing, it’s this. We all have our battles, desires, thorns, and weaknesses, in the midst of which, we often lose perspective of the bigger picture. But, every Thanksgiving, I’m reminded that no matter how seemingly insurmountable our hurdles, we have more to be grateful for. Rich is the man who sees what he already has.

For me, that’s you. I’m incredibly grateful to have you in my life, and for the meaning and support you provide me. Take a deep breath, and savor this moment. Happy Thanksgiving.