This Thanksgiving, Be Grateful For Life

So the story goes The Natives saved the Pilgrims and in return they broke bread and ate a gobbling, red-wattled Goliath as neighbors at the first Thanksgiving: a feast unique to us Americans but a caloric and spiritually rich tradition that can be embraced by anyone with a heart capable of gratitude.

A holiday tradition that combines the best of this messy, strange, sloppy, constantly evolving rough draft of a nation -- a celebration of family, food, friends and, for some, faith. It's a growing, moveable feast representative of all Americans and the potential of America -- there are no rules/regulations/limits to what can be included on a family's table. We can line up a brined Turkey next to a can of home-made achar, or elegantly place a chicken enchilada between pumpkin pie and Naan bread; the possibilities are endless.

So, if you are blessed, privileged, entitled, gifted, or serendipitously touched with lucky charms and fated to enjoy a Turkey day meal with loved ones, then please take a moment of gratitude. If possible, remember all those who are simply content sleeping one peaceful night without the fear of bombardment or death; or those hungry bellies scuffling for scraps of food, or the many broken down men and women simply seeking shelter from a cold night.

If you're in the company of an elder, take a moment to listen to their story, because time is fleeting and you'll be surprised at how much wisdom they can dispense in addition to curses, laments and monologues about the joys of Metamucil. Give your parents a hug; they aren't perfect, but most of them tried their best. For those among who are spiritually and emotionally wounded, allow your friends to heal you; that's why you keep them around... and for the occasional $5. For others enduring financial pain and hardship, take a day off from the worry and bask in the fatty juices of a dry bird beckoning to be eaten.

And if you able-minded and able-bodied with functioning lungs, a heartbeat and a pulse, be grateful for the ability to keep moving along on the interesting journey known as life -- especially if you're lucky to be in the company folks who love you. I know I am.