Thanksgiving week – a time of year I try to reflect on all those things I’m grateful for, and this year is no different, but truthfully, I’m having to dig a bit deeper.
I lost a friend from my writing circle this past weekend, and sadly, she’s the second our group lost in 2024. Yet I’m grateful for the joy and love and wisdom they each shared that will continue to surround all of us who knew them. Both, shining lights.
Another dear friend recently received a lousy health diagnosis, yet her presence in my life has been profound and I am so grateful for her friendship and her humor. She recently wrote “who knew our shared blank stares in the face of exquisite poetry could create such a bond.” That could be its own humorous blog post. Yes, another writing friend.
I remain disheartened that 50.2 percent of our voters this year rejected ethical character as a qualification for our country’s leadership, yet I’m grateful I live in a country when my voice has a vote. And I’m grateful that VP Harris and President Biden were so gracious in defeat. I only wish other leaders could act with such dignity instead of threatening violence.
I turned 70 in May and seem to be plagued by one pesky health issue after another – none of them serious, just annoying. Yet, I am so grateful I have medical resources available to me, as well as my own resilience, and that I enjoyed such great health up to this point. I’ve been reminded of the phrase “growing old isn’t for sissies.” This has confirmed for me – I am truly a sissy, which my older sisters could have probably told you. Which leads me to…
My sisters. Only gratitude, and I love spending time with them and talking and laughing, and reminiscing. You get the idea. I don’t get to see them enough, but when I do, it’s so special.
As I write this, I am sitting on the patio in 74 degrees of perfect Arizona sunshine, smiling at the grapefruit tree that is full and will be ready in two months. The tree makes me smile – full of life and vibrancy. This has been a very good move, five years already, and I will celebrate on Thursday with several friends who will bring all the sides to go with the turkey I’m preparing.
I hope you have the happiest of Thanksgivings, despite what your life may be handing you right now. I really couldn’t be more grateful for friends, for family, and for my faith that life will be okay. And for the Beckys and Ruthannes that have gone before me who took the time to share their kindness with me. May I take some of their sunshine and share it with others.
Peace.
Peace and many blessings to you Pam! This is a lovely reflection on thankfulness, and I love that you shared it with us. Happy thanksgiving!
Thank you. Sharing can be daunting at times. Peace and blessings to you as well.
I love the way you are able to put feelings into words. I am grateful to be your friend.
Oh my goodness, Linda. That means so much. Thank you.
Thank you Pam for your reflective thoughts, so many of us feel the same way !
I shall miss my warm Arizona Thanksgiving this year but will embrace the cold Chicago weather and the warmth of family. I’m truly thankful that we are healthy enough to travel and keep up with the younger generations. May the sun be shining for you on Thanksgiving day and stop to relax and enjoy your company.
Happy Thanksgiving
Oh my goodness, thank you so much! It’s hard to beat the warmth of family. Enjoy!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and Kathy! Great essay, Pam ❤️
Thanks, Kate. You’ve had quite a year as well – hope all is better. Hugs.
I certainly agree with your election thoughts and the wonderful way you were able to express character from our current leaders that faced defeat! I respect them which is more than I can do with the leaders of the next four years!
Thanks, Sheryl. How great to hear from
you!
I am so grateful for you, Pam. Thank you for this blog today. 2024 has been a tough year for losses too, and sometimes I forget just how fortunate I am.
Thanks, Teri. It’s a sign of our age, I guess. Keep on writing!
Thank you Pam for these lovely words. Much needed always, but especially now. Wishing you good health, happy times and peace.
Andrea, you are such a fine friend from my travel circle. And Happy Thanksgiving to you, as well. Thank you!
Pam,
I enjoy your blogs, the travels you share and your Facebook posts. It’s hard to believe how fast time flies. I understand your losses and minor aches and pains.
I am glad we can both continue to enjoy the positives in life (despite the election disaster).
Happy Thanksgiving, dear friend.
Thanks you, Adrian. Yes, the positives far outweigh the negatives in my life. We are both lucky.
Your entire post makes me smile and see clearly how wonderful..and challenging and aggravating…life can be. I am grateful for your perspective and especially for your gift of the written word. Brava!
Thank you so much. I’m thrilled I put a smile in your face. You are so kind.