Why I am Thankful

Thanksgiving is next weekend October 8th. This is my very favorite holiday – no one is stressed out about buying or giving gifts, families and friends get together just to share a meal and conversation, and all of us stop to think about everything we have to be grateful for in our lives.

I have a lot to be thankful for and I give thanks every day— for my generous and considerate clients and for the opportunities to share my gift-giving wisdom with others; for my wonderful husband and terrific son and the roof over our heads and the food in our stomachs and for our good health and vitality.

A lot of people are suffering, not only in the world at large, but also in Canada and specifically in Vancouver. If I could give every homeless person out there the warmth, food and shelter that they need, I would be so blessed. If I could ensure that no one is every bullied or belittled or beaten up, I’d be so happy. Unfortunately, I can’t do that by myself – I need you to help me. So, please don’t sit down to Thanksgiving dinner until you’ve donated to the Rape Crisis Centre, delivered canned goods to the Union Gospel Mission, donated good used clothing to the Salvation Army Thrift Stores, or volunteered to serve hot food to the needy at the Vancouver Eagles Lodge or the Salvation Army Harbourlight Centre. These are just some of the organizations that need your help this Thanksgiving (and every other day of the year).

We all have reasons to be thankful, even if we sometimes feel lost and abandoned. At least for today, stop and count your blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!