Truly Thankful

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” ~ Melody Beattie

Today is Thanksgiving, and always compelled to step back a notch and be Truly Thankful.

Life can be such a hussle and bussle, we create our own energy in forward motion and as we do, we need to slow it down or even stop and be grateful.

Living in the Gorge, its beautiful to see small businesses roll up the sidewalk and close the doors. Not only to respect the true meaning of Thanksgiving for themselves, but for the employees. Of course, not everyone has the ability to do that. Today, as many people travel to be with loved ones, enjoy family and traditions, gather and enjoy a festive meal together; many professionals still have to go to work and not be with family. We can not close the doors of hospitals, emergency crews, service men and women, hotels and facilities that care for people. If you are in the "people business", people still need help.

This year is a second year, after many I do not have to check into work, support staff, and even cook a traditional meal for family. Don't let the lack of tradition get you down. While I do not have to check into working, I will think of my family living in different directions and we may not be together, but they are always in my heart. So, if you are fortunate to be able to gather and celebrate family traditions with the ones you love, give a minute to think of those who can not be.

If you live in a small town like our Gorge community, or travel through it, be safe. Our roads thankfully this year are clear of ice and snow, but, with the heavy rains we have endured there will be rocks, branches and possibly worse ( slides, trees down), take a deep breath, slow down and get to your destination safely. Because in our small town, it may be a holiday to some, but we not only have our working professionals ready to assist if needed, We also have the hearts of volunteers in the fire departments who would leave their family gathering to come and assist if called out. Lets, hope that does not happen.

Whether you are at home or traveling this Thanksgiving, be safe, stay warm and dry, and most of all be thankful!