It is a time for reflection and considering the condition of others. It has no material connection. That comes in the most repugnant form on the next day, Black Friday followed by Cyber Monday. A recent poll said that as many as 45% of Americans would love to be able to opt out of Christmas as it is currently celebrated , what with all that retail excess. Avarice and gluttony of me, me, me.
I would be amongst that grouping. I need nothing. I would opt out of Birthdays too. I have one next week, and my wife asked dutifully "What do you want for your birthday ?" I responded a card and don't go beyond that as maybe next year I will buy myself a new bike. She said that I have been saying that for 4 years in a row. It is true---I have.
But in each of the 4 years there have been tuition payments, car repairs, and many things that we really needed. So as much as I would like a new bike, I guess I really haven't needed it. I have needed nothing to speak of, which is another way of saying I am the man who has everything..
But Thanksgiving is a holiday I can not skip or avoid. For me it is Memorial Day for the soul. Don't let this day pass without a nod and wink to what it is all about.
I am thankful for the wife who stood by me through 8 years of night school. 10 years of trying to have children, failed pregnancies and finally through the birth and raising of two children who have given me a lot of joy, laughs , angst and the whole magilla of parenthood. If she ever gets to read this blog, I hope she realizes exactly what she was for me.
Two children who are fine young people-
Family, who stay true even after 62 years get a big thanks.
For friends who did not think I was any crazier than they for wanting to bike ride the C&O Canal and who went all in for the ride of a lifetime .
Being thankful for one's lot in life is a great blessing, we certainly haven't become rich, but we have a roof over our heads, a warm place to sleep, we haven't missed any meals in awhile and we have been healthy. Life can be a tough sled for many people, especially these days, and I hope and pray for them and hope and pray that we don't forget them. And when I say thanks for all these things, I am saying it to a God, who I believe lends us support. There but for..........
From the man who really does have everything, except the new bike.
Happy Thanksgiving, I hope yours was as pleasant as mine. BTW, everyday is something of a Thanksgiving Day.