Ren - quite frankly I have a hard time responding positively this year. If 2013 were a fish I'd throw it back. Lost one sister in law to disease, lost my mom to old age, a niece was murdered. My wife's twin sister had a stroke and major surgery. Huge financial struggles, daughter in therapy and in process of flunking out of high school despite a very high I.Q. First time in over 20 years I'm not cooking the Thanksgiving feast and hosting 20-30 people as well as cooking an additional turkey or two for a local church to deliver to the less fortunate.
In the end, however, I was reminded by the therapist last night night that the most important things to be thankful for are still here. Been married for 35 years and we still love each other. Our son has grown into a responsible, caring, kind man who is supporting and loving to his wife and our grandson. Our daughters are caring, loving kids who are in good health. We have a stronger family bond than I grew up with and I am there every day for them. We've managed to keep a roof over our heads despite the financial struggles.
Yes, I wish I could find full time work but my part time status lets me be here for the family. Those bonds are more important than money.
So, in the end, Happy Thanksgiving to you, too.