I am thankful for the ability to spend time with my loved ones…not just on holidays but other days as well. I truly feel for those who don’t have that privilege. Granted, I know that some people choose NOT to spend time with family because of strife that may be present; or some don’t have a choice because they have to be away from home; or there are others who have no choice because their family isn’t around or there for them. Whatever the case may be, I count my blessings because I have the luxury of spending time with family and friends.
Although it’s not always easy and there are bound to be disagreements, I always remember that I am lucky to have these people in my life and that disagreements are normal and part of human nature. As long as the disagreements are discussed, diffused, and not acted upon in a violent manner, then I feel it’s a healthy part of the relationship. We are simply not hard-wired to live in Utopia where there are no arguments and everything is Pollyanna; a difference of opinion is what makes humans unique and makes life interesting and exciting.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it gives me a good excuse to reflect on this very point. What’s great about Thanksgiving is that is the most universal and all-encompassing holiday. It is not tied to a religious holiday and it is not for one particular ethnicity. It is simply a widely accepted holiday meant to promote togetherness and family bonds. Every year, I get very excited for this holiday. The prep (although stressful) is still part of what I love most about this holiday. The eating, the telling of stories, the sharing of food….I love it all! I look around the table at Thanksgiving and I think to myself how blessed I am to have each and every one of these people present in my life.
Whatever you do, please make sure you spend time with your loved ones if you can…and when you get the opportunity to do so, make sure you make the most of it. Time and life is precious and you never know what’ll happen tomorrow, if it ever comes. You don’t want to live with regret and isolation…make sure your loved ones know how much you love them while you still have them in your life; otherwise, you’ll have to wait until you see them again (in the life after this one). Do yourself a favor and mend a fence or two – you’ll be better for it. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it in the long run.
If you’ve mended a fence or want to share a story about a loved one, please share – I’d love to hear it!
XOXOXOXO,
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