As we head into the Thanksgiving long weekend, we often consider the things we can feel grateful for in our lives.
Watching news reports of late relaying chaos in far-flung locales, living in a comparatively safer environment would seem to be high on many of our lists. While some disagree with the Canadian government’s decision to use military aggression to battle ISIS, we can feel comforted that we at least live in a country where such a decision went to a vote in the House of Commons.
We can be thankful that in the daylight hours we are able to walk safely down virtually any street in the cities and towns of the Capital Region, without fear of bombs raining down or thugs accosting us with weapons.
With municipal elections nearing, we can be thankful for the ability to cast our ballot for the local politicians of our choice, rather than living in a state where residents have little to no chance of participating in a democratic vote.
We can choose to give thanks as we sit down to a pleasurable meal, and voice gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the hard work that allows such food to be put on the table. At the same time we can acknowledge the struggles of the families and individuals who aren’t blessed with the same good fortune.
On the West Shore specifically, we can choose to support the Goldstream Food Bank in its efforts to provide low-income families and those in poverty a Thanksgiving meal that is a little more special than the everyday fare, which sometimes isn’t much at all.
Our far-better-than-average quality drinking water, often placed on that Thanksgiving table, should be included on the gratefulness list. One need not travel far to find a municipal water supply stocked with chemicals to make the liquid drinkable.
Having been comfortable walking around in shirtsleeves or shorts this week, some gratefulness for our pleasant October weather might have flashed across people’s minds.
For many people, being close to family for the weekend or even just for dinner is at the forefront of their minds. Those in the armed forces can appreciate how special that can be.
So, take some time, this weekend and any time, to find things you can be grateful for.
It’s a good exercise that can inspire positive feelings and carry you through those grey days of fall and winter.
