A Thanksgiving Message of Gratitude

When things first shut down in March of 2020, my family had to cancel a spring break trip to Ireland. We’ve had the travel bug ever since. I am grateful to be writing this blog from a hotel in San Francisco, which means we have been able to enjoy a few days adventuring together. Boy, am I thankful for this time away. 

In fact, this morning, we awoke in a very cold tent in Yosemite National Park. That made me grateful for our house. It made me thankful for simple things like indoor plumbing, heat, electricity, and wi-fi. 

We got up and went for a hike today l don’t think any of us will ever forget. It made me thankful for nature’s awe-inspiring beauty and for the national park system. I am grateful for the physical ability to hike. I am grateful for the lovely weather. We encountered two men doing trail maintenance. They are members of a long tradition of trail builders and trail keepers. I am thankful for their labor and that we didn’t have to blaze our own path out there. I am thankful we saw deer but no bears.

We’re headed home soon. My mind returns to work stuff. Man, am I glad to have the work. I am so grateful for my clients. I am thankful for the fiduciary relationship I have with them—free from conflicts of interest. I am thankful for their faith and trust in my skills. 

I wish for us all that we can pause and count our blessings this week—and on a regular basis. 

When asked, “How are you?” My grandfather used to answer, “Better than I deserve!” I really love that. The truth is that simply because of our very existence, we live in a state of grace. Let us give thanks. I hope you and your families have a happy Thanksgiving!