This time of year is one that calls for us to consider the good things in life that we experience, and to appreciate them.  How many good things can you think about that have happened in your life?  Pausing to think about these things can be a good way to refocus, and not let the negative parts of this life consume you.

Some things we often take for granted are where we may need to start.  God, who made all of us and everything in nature, and who often works behind the scenes (He usually deserves more credit than He gets). Waking up this morning is another blessing.  Being able to breathe, move, and function in a reasonably good state of mind are also worth considering.  Having a good job or career, enabling one to support oneself – and in some cases, a family – is also worth considering.

The people in our lives are also worth considering.  Family, friends, classmates, co-workers, others who bring out the best in us, who watch out for us, protect us, support us, and love us unconditionally.  Have we thanked them? Can we ever thank them enough?

I have chosen to focus on having an attitude of gratitude this season. It helps to have that frame of mind every day, and not just because it’s the season for Thanksgiving. So what can I say that I am thankful for? Here goes.

I have an awesome family, made of parents and siblings and nieces I grew up with, great-nieces and nephews since we all grew up, a wonderful wife, fantastic children and grandchildren, and in-laws as well. I’m thankful for my church family also, many who watched me grow up, and others who have been around since I have grown.

I’m thankful for my home, although it’s small, it’s where I live, and it’s reasonably maintained. I’m thankful for my teachers who contributed towards my education, and some who encouraged me when times were difficult. I’m thankful for my job, and the jobs I have done in my career – varied as they were – and I look forward to new opportunities that approach.

I’m also thankful for my friends and family who connect with me through social media, whether on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or others. I’m thankful for first responders who really care about protecting all of us, regardless of what differences we have individually. I sincerely appreciate the veterans who served and contributed to defending our country. I’m also thankful for the person reading this post.

Happy Thanksgiving!  Praying God’s blessings for you and your family; wishing you all the best and more.