CHICAGO, November 23, 2011―Thursday is Thanksgiving Day. We should remember all the things we are grateful for, besides stuffing our selves into tryptophan induced somnolence.

Here are the things I am grateful for:

• MLH and MCGB. They know who they are.
• My family, friends, and neighbors.
• The Mass Crew. They know who they are.
• Living in the greatest country in the history of the world.
• The United States Military for all their sacrifices.
• The police officer on the beat who keeps us safe.
• The firemen and paramedics who rescue us from injury and death’s door.
• The people who work in the various service industries, working all the invisible jobs. We may never see or notice them, but we see and benefit from the work they do.
• The caregivers, care of our loved ones in our homes or other facilities.
• Emergency room personnel, especially those who work in trauma and critical care units, who strive to keep us alive.
• The clergy of all faiths who keep us spiritually healthy.
• The volunteers, who generously give their time and talent to help others.
• The food pantries who feed the needy.
• The homeless shelters who provide some comfort to the most vulnerable.
• To the anonymous people who make a difference in the lives of others without notoriety or publicity.
• Police, fire, and military chaplains, who provide succor to the hearts and souls of those who serve.
• To the philanthropists, who share their wealth, help the needy, finance medical research, and enrich our culture.
• To our pets, who give us unconditional love and loyalty.
• The great editors at the Washington Times Communities, who make my work better and keep me from going over the edge or jumping the shark.
• Thanks also to all of you who read my column, comment or email on my scribbling, and criticize, rant, rave, rage, or praise. I am grateful for everyone of you.
• God, Allah, Yaweh, the Great Pumpkin, the Great Comedian, or whatever you call the higher power.

When you sit down for your Thanksgiving feast, before you share the love, bow your head and be grateful for what you have; for just one day forget what you want, expect, desire, or demand, and have faith that you will have what you need.

Celebrate the holiday in the true spirit- with a pure attitude of gratitude. Then, and only then, dig in and enjoy. Share the love.

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving.

Peter Bella is a retired Chicago Police Officer, freelance writer, freelance photographer, and consultant. He is a passionate cook and eater. He likes to be the sharp stick that pokes, annoys, and provokes. His opinions are his and his alone.

 

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