Many families this Thanksgiving will wonder why they should give thanks.

Some may have lost their homes, to fire, foreclosure or to sheriff's sale.

Others may have lost their jobs or their health insurance.

Many may be suffering from the loss of a loved one or having been told they have a serious illness.

Thanksgiving, however, is an ideal time to discuss treasured memories.

A friend recently told me although her father-in-law was tragically killed in a traffic accident, the family chose to place their focus on the birth of a new grandchild instead of dwelling on their loss.

Giving thanks may be difficult if you have been forced to move in with relatives or friends, but by doing so, improved relationships and new opportunities may be discovered.

Say thank you for your family, for your children and for your spouse, even if there are times they drive you to distraction.

If you have a job, be grateful for having the ability to provide for your family.

Give thanks to the first responders– the volunteer firefighters and ambulance crews – who leave their families and the warmth of their own homes when called, no matter what the time or weather.

Thank your family doctor for sticking it out and not closing his doors in this time of uncertainty regarding medical care.

And, finally, give thanks to God for letting you wake another morning and for giving you the strength to move forward.

Deb Palmieri

editor

Parkland Press

Northwestern Press