Thanksgiving: A Reflection on Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a special day, a time when many in the United States pause to gather with family and friends. The holiday invites us to reflect on and give thanks for the blessings in our lives—our land, our food, and the freedoms sought by our ancestors who braved the journey to Plymouth Rock.

Yet, sometimes, gratitude doesn’t come easily. Life’s challenges can make it difficult to focus on the positives, and that’s okay. This year hasn’t gone exactly as planned, with its fair share of lows. Still, I’m choosing to embrace a mindset of positivity and reflection, opting for gratitude over anything that might drain my emotional energy.

This Year, I Am Thankful For:

1. My oldest child: Watching her graduate college, secure a job, and move to a new city on her own has been a source of immense pride.
2. My youngest child: Spending the summer in Israel, giving back to the community, and experiencing incredible personal growth has been inspiring.
3. My new job at Aprio: Joining a firm with a fantastic culture, working alongside friends, and staying local to Atlanta has been an amazing opportunity.
4. The joy of sports: Attending as many University of Maryland sporting events as possible has been a highlight of the year.
5. Unwavering support: I am deeply grateful for my family and friends, who stood by me during the tough times this year.
6. New connections: A heartfelt thank you to all the subscribers and followers I’ve gained through Jordan’s shorts—your support means so much!

Every trip around the sun offers us unique experiences. They won’t always be easy or positive, but one key truth remains: it’s better to experience life’s highs and lows than to miss out on it entirely.

So, let’s cherish every day we’re above ground. Let’s appreciate the moments we share with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. Time is a precious asset; one we can’t replenish. Let’s spend it wisely and gratefully.