A Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

Let’s keep in mind all of us have plenty to be thankful for. We have been blessed with being alive, and being in a position to enjoy today with family and loved ones.

We should be thankful that we live in the greatest country in the world, and the best American City. (that is if you live in NY-Smile) I know I’m thankful for all the things we take for granted everyday. That I can go for a walk in the park today, watch the football games, sit down and read the newspapers, watch my son do well at community college when it was predicted because of his disability, he would never graduate from HS. Today he’s enjoying the food, and getting ready for final exams.

I recommend trying to be nice to people, especially today, and to our senior citizens. Thank that police officer or fire fighter, or military person you may run into today. Thank them for all they do for all of us. Remember that slogan, freedom is not free. It’s so very true.

Make sure that Senior Citizen in your building is ok today. Take them a plate of Hot Thanksgiving food. Try and remember people get depressed during the holidays. We can all use a helping hand. What I am trying to say is I have found in my life, it’s always a better experience when you give to others, rather than receiving or taking.

I remember about 20 years ago, about this time, for the holidays I was thousands of miles away in the Persian Gulf with the Rev. Jesse Jackson. 20 years have blown by. My daughter, who was an infant at the time is a full-time journalist, and my son despite epilepsy is studying to enter TV journalism behind the scenes. He has a character and a strength, and a determination that few ever have, including me. I am thankful because while it’s taking him 3 years and two full summers of study, for a two year Associate Degree, he is going to graduate and go on with his studies. That is a gift from God. I am so thankful on this day.

Last night, my daughter came up for thanksgiving, and said “Dad I want to make you a meatball sub, I make it just like the Italian Restaurants.” Of course, I was a little skeptical, but she made it, and the sub sandwich was delicious. Something as small as that made me happy. Bonding moments have a tendency to do that.

I would also like to issue this challenge to you today. We can’t just sit around and complain about things that are bad. I ask, what are YOU doing about it? Hopefully “each one, teach one.” Just try to be there for one person. Five minutes to talk to them, see how they are doing. Just care. Some male teenagers that live in the housing project I grew up in are coming up for Thanksgiving. I’m so thankful. Like myself, they didn’t have male role models, but they have graduated from HS or obtained their GED, and are now excited about going to community college.
I have known these kids since they were 7 and 8 years old, and they are going on to greater things in life. I HAVE ALOT TO BE THANKFUL FOR TODAY. ALL OF US DO. I recommend that you sit down and think about your blessings.

God Bless You, and Happy Thanksgiving.