Letter: As Christmas countdown begins, a pause for thanks

Talk about it

Now that the election is over, we are starting to focus on Christmas. The Christmas spirit is everywhere, it seems — on TV, advertisements, magazines, city events and more. But wait a minute: Aren’t we forgetting a holiday in between? There is still Thanksgiving to look forward to, right?

During a discussion with my girlfriend about what we were thankful for, it took me forever to think of an answer. However, after an event last week, it is pretty obvious to me what I should be thankful for — my family.

Many of you in the greater Windom community may know my mother and father. Well, last week she suffered a health scare that scared the heck out of me, and I responded in a way I am not particularly proud of — I remained silent. At the time I was afraid to say anything, as I was thinking about what had happened in the past during her battles with a heart attack and breast cancer. Now that I was able to see her, I want to say two things. 1. I love you. 2. I’m sorry.

We often take our families for granted and then suddenly — poof — your loved ones are gone. I thank God that I had this second chance to re-examine what I am thankful for.

My family is pretty epic; I’m not going to lie. Mind you, there are days were we wish we could strangle each other, but who doesn’t have a family like that? I’m thankful for my mom and her understanding, compassion and love that she shows me, even when I don’t deserve it. I’m thankful for my dad and his quiet strength, and his sometimes hidden humor. I’m thankful for my sister, Lizzy, for putting up with me and loving me even though we often greatly annoy each other.

Oh, while I’m at it, I should say I am thankful for my girlfriend, Carly, and my three-legged cat Betsy, who is attempting to help me write this letter. I guess what I would like to say is thanks to my family and, to all those out there, remember what you should be thankful for this year. I wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

Tags: opinion, letters, holiday