I've done some reading lately about the US Thanksgiving holiday - the history, the tradition, the uniqueness of this US holiday, and the opportunity to reflect on what "Being Thankful" means for me. What I take from that reading is that the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday has evolved significantly over time (some good, some bad), and while there are some commonly adopted "traditions" (turkey, football, shopping, etc.), for each of us Thanksgiving can mean different things. I'd like to share what it means for me.
I've been blessed with family, friends, my health, and colleagues that inspire me, challenge me, and help me grow every day. It is so easy to be wrapped up in day-to-day activities and the natural stresses and pressures that come along that you can forget about the opportunity to take a step back and reflect, and for me that is what the "Thanksgiving holiday" is about - an opportunity for reflection and perspective.
I reflect on the changes over the past year, new relationships I've built, and ongoing relationships that continue to grow. I reflect on the inspiration I get from the people around me, and the satisfaction of being able to help others even in small ways. I reflect on the joy of accomplishments, the learning from failures, and the desire that every day to be better than the day before.
From that reflection, I hopefully gain perspective in recognizing that I am very lucky to have the family, friends, colleagues, and opportunities in front of me and that all of these are a blessing that many don't share. That knowledge makes me humble, and hungry to help those around me to gain the "luck" that I have experienced.
My wish for all of you, whether you spend this time with family and friends or solo, in a traditional or non-traditional way, is that you have the opportunity to reflect on what you are thankful for and to be able to gain perspective from that reflection.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you - my friends, colleagues, and extended family.
