What Are You Thankful For?

BY JOANNE CELI
KONKLIFE FEATURING WRITER

When I was young, I heard older people say, “when you have your health, you have everything”. I

empathized, but I kind of felt it was an “old lady” thing to say. At the time, I was thankful for getting a

good grade, getting a job, getting a new car, getting the guy. As I’ve reached my golden years, and I

have a new hip and many other aches, pains, and scary happenings, I get it. Totally. I might even add

“Without your health, you have nothing”.

But I don’t want to bum everyone out before Thanksgiving. I’m certainly grateful for so many other

things. Aside from the usuals – good husband, loving family and friends, a roof over our heads – there

are so many mundane things I take for granted. I’m so happy to have heat in the winter and air

conditioning in the summer. Life would be very boring for me without great food (especially fond of

anything pasta). I don’t think I’d want to live without good wine. 

Of course, there are comforts I don’t usually thank the universe for – like stretch waist pants, soft flannel pajamas, an engrossing novel, my lovable, loyal dogs. If I take the time to think about it, the list is endless. I have so much more than so many people. I feel this is the time of year to keep those less fortunate in our hearts.

Just within the last few days, I’ve heard on the news or read on social media facts like:

“As many as 9 million children in the U.S. live in “food insecure” homes.”

“Nearly 8 million seniors in America face the threat of hunger or malnourishment.”

“There is a severe drought in Somalia. They are on the brink of starvation. One-third of children

under 5 are malnourished and dying.”

The suffering in the world is so much greater than we even imagine. So, enjoy that scrumptious

Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends. Enjoy it because you deserve it. Be thankful that you’re

where you are in life and maybe think about others who aren’t in such a good place.

  • Savethechildren.org
  • Nokidhungry.org
  • FeedingAmerica.org
  • Any local food bank

Spread the love. Happy Thanksgiving.

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