Thanksgiving 2011

THANKSGIVING 2011

Given the blessings that I have received, Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to recall them with humility. I surely never deserved or earned them. They are pure gifts.

Married to my best friend who only becomes more admirable each day! It is amazing to watch her become so involved with others with her personality, skills, and love. Everything she touches is better for her attention.

Watching adult children become even more responsible agents in a confusing world strengthens the conviction that they are gifts. Surely, what they have become far exceeds either our expectations or contributions. They have done so much with their gifts!

Even more undeserved are the people our adult children married! What a stroke of good fortune to have these people accept us as part of their family. Our feelings for them always seem so strong. They are everything that one can hope for as family.

Grandchildren who make my world so filled with expectations! To think that I can experience the wonder of human development without the burden of deluding myself into thinking that I am a major contributor makes it all a joy.

Hospice patients who continue to demonstrate how strong people are when facing the most awesome moment of life, their death. Each one seems to absorb the uniqueness of the situation without succumbing to self-pity or anger. They surely help me to think positively about myself when my time comes.

I am most thankful that my body continues to respond to my will. My status as retired has enabled me to have time to do more physical exercise than ever. Each day I enjoy my moments with Yoga, jogging, bicycling, and swimming. I could not ask for more.

I cannot imagine my world without the gifts of books and music. I never tire of either and cannot make enough time each day to satisfy my need. Knowing that time will ultimately end for me, each day becomes a gift to learn more about our world, people, and the talents of those who write and provide us with the beautiful sounds of music.

I am most thankful for the life of Franklin and now the new friend, Patrick. Franklin was such a loving and patient friend, not only to me, but also to everyone elsea. He was specially kind to the grandchildren who were able to play with him with no fear.  The sadness of his loss has only made the joy of having Patrick special. During our five months, he has learned so much and become close to us all. His liveliness matches his affection.

As crazy as it may appear, I am thankful for becoming a faithful user of Facebook. Whatever others may say, it has expanded my world by being aware of people that often are forgotten because of our absorption in other matters.