Today, we celebrate Thanksgiving in the U.S. It is a time to express our gratitude and give thanks. It also happens to be my birthday today. As I look back on my life, I am reminded of all the teachers and life lessons I have had. My parents and grandparents were my first teachers. They taught me right from wrong, how to be responsible, and to always care for others. For the love they gave me, the wisdom they shared, the stories they told, and the lessons I learned… I am thankful!

I have met a lot of wonderful people in my life and through all of our interactions I have learned about relationships, love, friendship, strength, and understanding. I have also met people who were not so nice and tried to spread their negativity to others. I have experienced the exhilarating life events of marriage and the joy of having children yet I have also suffered the devastating loss of loved ones. I have walked on the calm sun-kissed sand next to the ocean and I have also felt the wrath of a hurricane. I acknowledge the kind and unkind people, the happy and sad events, the beauty and power of nature… for they all had special life lessons. They taught me to be open minded, to treat others with kindness, to appreciate everything in life, to not take anything or anyone for granted, and to always feel blessed. For the good and bad life lessons… I am thankful!

There are stories I have heard, books I have read, and documentaries I have watched that have taught me about courage and standing up for what is right. I have been given examples of how to choose compassion and respect others. For the educators, religious leaders, coaches, pioneers, and mentors who have crossed my life’s path… I am thankful!

A special thanks to my husband and children who have taught me that love is one of the biggest blessings of life. My pets also show me unconditional love and are there to cuddle with every day. They are such a big part of my life and family too. For the love and loyalty of my family… I am thankful!

So as you sit down today take a moment to look around, then close your eyes, look inside yourself and give thanks for your blessings. Remember that material things come and go but love stays in your heart forever. Thank God everyday you wake up and always feel blessed. For my life… I am thankful!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!