Once again, it is Thanksgiving here in Canada. Or Turkey Day as some of as call it.
Along with eating ham and turkey and stuffing and then more stuffing and pie, comes the opportunity to reflect on what you are thankful for in your life.
As we sat around the table last night, we each took our turn to give thanks for anything we wanted.
Pondering while my turn approached, I realized that I had not spent Thanksgiving with my family for four years. Four whole years. And five years years ago I was away as well (in Kenya fearing the hyenas outside my hut. I called home and after a brief chat with my Grandma, she accidentally hung up on me and I was out of minutes. That year I was thankful to have lived.)
My life this past year has been a bit hectic and somewhat of a test but the silver lining is that I’ve been able to spend more time at home than I have for a while. I’ve reconnected with family, friends, fallen even more in love with my favourite city in the world – Toronto, cared for Grandma in her time of need and made some fantastic new friends as well!
While things aren’t always exactly as you left them, it’s always recognizable and you can piece it together.
So this Thanksgiving, I am thankful for: Home.
Travelling and exploring the world is such an incredible gift but knowing that no matter what happens, you can return home and count on supportive arms and love to greet you is one the most valuable things you can have.
Take some time today, even if you don’t celebrate Thanksgiving in your corner of the world, to consider what you are thankful for in your life. We all have something and you may surprise yourself.
And those who have made my recent stint at home so wonderful – Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Happy Thanksgiving.