Thanksgiving, Part 3: Thankfulness In Hard Times

OK, so we've had a little Thanksgiving history and we've had a little turkey trivia (special thanks to the historian who corrected my mistake last week).

Now it's time for a lesson in humility.
 
I can see how in these difficult times lots of people can become overwhelmed. Not only is this the beginning of the Holiday Season, it is also the beginning of the depression season for many people. The housing market stinks, the stock market stinks, the job market stinks, the price of gas is nearly $4 a gallon. Throw in heating your home this long winter, and how about Holiday shopping and presents and and and ...
 
Personally, 2011 has not been such a kind year for me. The bad economy is troublesome but pales in comparison to a sick child or the loss of people close to you. It would be easy to become sour and cynical but in hind sight I still have a roof over my head, a car to drive me to a job that I love.

Anyone who's seen me knows I'm not starving. I have been blessed with the memories of people that I loved and loved me back. I have a wonderful daughter whose troubles have only given me reason to be stronger. I have family and friends that I could never repay for their support and kindness. I am so thankful for all of them.
 
And isn't that what Thanksgiving is all about, counting your blessings, being appreciative of things you have and not forlorn over the things you don't.

The simplest  pleasures in life are sometimes the most meaningful and so for the second Thanksgiving in a row (yes, I've been writing this column for over a year now!) I implore each and every one of you to think of the less fortunate and extend your blessings to them.
 

• The Merrimack Valley Food Bank at 735 Broadway, Lowell  MA 978-454-7272
• The Catholic Charities Food Pantry at 70 Lawrence St. Lowell MA 978-454-9946
• at 999 Whipple Rd. 978-858-2273

All of these agencies could sure use a hand helping families much less fortunate than most of us have a holiday to be thankful for. Do your part, it doesn't take much, a can of corn, a jar of gravy, an apple pie, every little bit counts, and the feeling you get by helping people in need, is one added reason to be thankful on America's  Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving to all.  Sincerely, Bob Leo