And of course the holiday has disturbing aspects in its origins.
Still -- while keeping those realities present -- when is it bad to be thankful?
For the beauty that comes with the change in seasons...
For the wonderful meals, and the skill and time it takes to prepare them...
For the unexpected skills and conversations that enliven our gathering ...
For the regularly repeated conversation, "Remind me, are you my second cousin once removed? or ....."
For health and hardiness (my cousin Gerry's visit to the hospital notwithstanding)...
And most and best, for my wonderful and quite extended family !!
May the friends and family around us provide the strength we need to make the world better over the coming year.