I know that I’m guilty and I know that most of us are. We are guilty for not being grateful for what we have. Lest you think this is about to be a lecture, it certainly is not. Rather, I remind myself, along with readers, how there are always things for us to be grateful for during this Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Years ago, I read the following. I know Christopher has used it in speaking in the past and it’s an excellent reminder for us this time of year. While I am not certain who originally wrote it, it certainly helps put our life in perspective.

I felt bad when I met the man who had no car, until I met the man who had no bike.

I felt bad for the man who had no bike, until I met the man who had no shoes.

I felt bad for the man who had no shoes, until I met the man who had no feet.

I felt bad for the man who had no feet, until I met the man who had no legs.

I felt bad for the man who had no legs, until I was reminded of the man who had just died.

And you get the idea. It could always be worse.

I have much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving and Christmas, as we all do. That doesn’t mean life is easy and it doesn’t mean we are no longer in a recession. It does mean, however, that we do not have the right to feel sorry for ourselves.

Log back on next month as we look at additonal practical steps for surviving tough times. Until then, have a blessed Thanksgiving and let us all be grateful for