Tommeka Semien

10 Reasons To Give Thanks

Tommeka Semien
10 Reasons To Give Thanks

Never take the new day for granted.  Share your love for friends and family.  Give thanks for all that you have and some of what you don't.

Thanksgiving is the one day of the year reserved for Americans to offer thanks for the many blessings that have been bestowed upon us.  This year, Thanksgiving comes immediately after several life events that have reminded me just how precious life is for all of us.  

10 Reasons To Give Thanks

Food on the Table:  Remember that in your own town, there may be people with far less food security than you have ever experienced.  Be thankful for the opportunity to eat what you want, when you want it.

Good Decisions:  "Make wise choices."  My mother sings this to my girls.  Life presents opportunities that can lead to both great and regrettable results.  Celebrate your good decisions and learn from your mistakes.

Friends and Family:  You can't choose your family and sometimes friends are handpicked for you.  However they come, both are there when you need them most.  They love and support you through thick and thin.  They stand by you when you're right and sometimes even when you are wrong.

Nanas and Pop-pops:  Whether they are biological or ceremonial, having grandparents around is a joy.  Not only do they share their wisdom, but they help out with whatever they can manage.  My mom still cooks holiday meals.  My dad still cooks Sunday lunch.

A Strong Constitution:  Managing life requires persistence and resilience.  It also requires coordinating your daily activities and managing stress.  Your ability to bounce back after the unexpected is key to finding success at work and at home.  

Fury Companions:  Tiger is our fury friend.  He makes one year on December twenty-sixth.  He is a handful.  He is messy.  He steals and destroys shoes.  He begs for table food.  He gives really wet kisses.  Tiger makes everyone smile.

New Directions:  Life is a roller coaster where some turns are better than others.  Whether you go out looking for change or it arrives by happenstance, embrace it.  Step outside of your comfort zone and embrace the rewards that come your way.

Every Breath of the Day:  Sickness, accidents, and misfortune each have the ability to cut life as we know it short.  Be thankful for your health.  Exercise caution in potentially dangerous situations.  Show your love to those closest to you.   

Second Chances:  If you've ever made a mistake, you understand how important it is to get another go at something.  Remember that everybody makes mistakes.  Extend the courtesy to others.  Sometimes you get it right the second time.

New Technologies:  When your day flies by at 100 mph, technology can help you to arrive at the right place at the right time.  From smart phones, to tablets, to home security, to in-vehicle wi-fi,  be thankful for the tools that you have at your fingertips.


Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!