Even in the darkest of days one searches to find a flicker of light, perhaps cutting through the fog or slanting between the clouds, and if you can find it, if only for a split second, it does the heart good to take that hope in. Absolute darkness does seem to be the state of affairs clear round our little spinning Earth of late. From the butchers who attacked Israeli civilians on October 7th to the recent ‘Nazi talk’ from the off-the-rails GOP frontrunner, not forgetting the Russian invasion of Ukraine that’s close to two years of bloodshed, or that many of our own Senators are bent on creating a theocracy likening themselves to the misguided yet mighty Salem judges and causing as much suffering as they did in 1692. Yes, there is no doubt, these are dark times, not made better by extremist of any religious bent. But today, of all the days in the year, I strive to find a reason, or even a short pile of reasons, to clasp my hands together in gratitude.

Even though I am 3,000 miles from just about all my loves, it fills me with great joy seeing them together: those powerful familial ties binding us tightly in love. Knowing that in the not too long future we will all be together again is something I’ll remember today. Whether you feel this way about your blood family or in your friend groups, allowing for love in your life acts as a powerful tug toward happiness. I am so grateful to have both a family I cherish and friends of substance.

Most days I am utterly grateful for all types of transportation,  especially the flying kind, for which I am in awe and thankful. One can zip across the whole of our America within hours, and in doing so, stand in celebration with those you love. What a remarkable luxury! What a gift! Throw in two back-to-back on-time flights and you have a most definite slice of heaven right on your tray table. This past year I have had several such lucky crossings, most recently to be with my daughter and many of her favorite people as she crested into a new decade. This significant day will always be as much mine as it is hers, and sharing those birthday lights together shines brightly in my heart.

There is something remarkable about having a spouse who adores you. I know this love makes me stronger, bolder, healthier, and extraordinarily fortunate. There is never an idea that I can come up with that she doesn’t support in countless ways. Her belief in me is rather stunning in its absoluteness. Today, much like all my days, I will benefit from the delicious spread on our table, as well as the festive touches she will add to the day. She is my cheerleader and coach: she is a friend in the dark and a delight in the sunshine.

I am sure there are many people struggling all around our globe today, and my heart goes out to all of you. Perhaps, a moment to be grateful will allow many to realize there is something, just one thing, that will open our captive hearts a bit more, and that is enough. Goodness is powerful, and although I don’t expect it to come from the gods, I know enough to feel it when it crosses my path.

In my most sincerity, I wish this for all of you too. Happy Thanksgiving to all.