Being thankful for a fullness beyond food

It’s a sign of the times, again, that folks choose to disregard the old in favor of the new. That is true until they really learn to understand the old. We’re supposed to let go of the musty past and create new traditions that we like, tweet, pin, post and share.

But today, on the day of tradition, we should spend some time reflecting on a few nostalgic and traditional questions:

What do we have and who do we have in our lives? How would our lives be different without them?

When did we last express our sincere appreciation for those who care for and about us?

What’s so appealing about Norman Rockwell’s Thanksgiving Day utopia, with grandma and grandpa bringing the roast turkey to the table with the family all sitting together around the bounty?

It’s the comfort of family. It’s the innocence of a simpler time. It’s holding on to that moment of balance. It’s the sense of peace and the craving for security. It is the lack of want.

By the time we end this day, our final nodding thoughts should be free of regret. This of all days should be spent reflecting on and then showing our deep appreciation, we hope for everyone’s full bellies, but more for everyone who gives us full lives. Make this Thanksgiving a true day of thankful action.

Happy Thanksgiving.

This story was originally published November 25, 2015 at 1:00 PM with the headline "Being thankful for a fullness beyond food."