Thanks for . . .

As we gather round the dinner table for Turkey Day, it’s appropriate to pause and ponder the purpose of the day — thanksgiving.

It’s something we should do more than once a year — count our many blessings and give thanks.

What am I thankful for?

At the top of my list you won’t find things. What I am most thankful for are the people who make my life interesting, entertaining, fulfilling — complete.

A husband who knows when to laugh with me and when to say nothing at all. A true partner who’s known me since I was five years old and still thinks I’m special.

Three children who make me wonder and worry, chuckle and curse, brag and badger, crazy and contented.

Two parents who are as solid as a rock. Two parents who act like kids but can also “ache” like their age at times.

Six siblings who are my friends.

In-laws I like spending time with.

Friends who accept me for who I am — an opinionated, scatter-brained, 40-something woman who needs therapy.

Allies who want to make the community a better place to live. Cohorts who are willing to wage that battle.

Neighbors who keep a close eye on us — not because we’re worth watching — but because they care.

A place to call “home” that feels safe, comfortable and alive.

A time to call “now” that’s full of challenges and opportunities.

I’m grateful I live in a time and a place where peace prevails and freedom is possible.

Turning my mind away from the grander, nobler picture, I can’t ignore my personal tunnel vision.

I must admit I’m thankful for life’s little “selfish” blessings: Lycra, chocolate, Advil, diet Coke, the Food Network, giant leaf piles, Campbell’s tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, Oil of Olay, audio books, pedicures, seatbelts, golf carts, black leather boots, string cheese, jukeboxes, blackjack tables, fresh cut grass, mother’s smiles, father’s advice, children’s hugs, friends’ laughter, long lunches, pie, harvest moons, snowflakes, tulips, black olives, highlights, motorcycle rides, midnight Mass, caramel rolls, sandals, back rubs, John Grishman novels and loofa sponges.

They’re trivial and silly, I know but my gratitude does not wane.

On a more serious note — In giving thanks ourselves, we shouldn’t forget those who have little to be thankful for.

I hope for peace among nations and an end to violence in every corner of the world.

I pray that hunger and disease are erased.

I envision a world that seeks cooperation and ceases conflicts.

I dream of a day when we can all sit at the same table and give thanks as one.