“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
— John F. Kennedy
Why are you grateful? With months of bitter political rhetoric, an election and lingering angst, it seems appropriate to take stock of what’s right and good. This month of Thanksgiving, should be just that — a month for being thankful. If you haven’t contemplated your feelings and reasons, I encourage you to do so. It’s therapeutic — and it will help center your soul on what really matters.
With the exception of the first five, here is my short list for gratefulness in no particular order:
1. My faith and God’s amazing grace.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
2. My mom, husband and two dogs. These are the ones I turn to each day for love, comfort and support. I would be lost without them.
3. My true friends. I may not see them everyday, but I don’t have to see them because they are there — no matter what. These are the people who have laughed when I rejoiced and suffered when I wept. They’ve shown up for the everyday triumphs, trials and tribulations, and the unexpected moments that brought me to my knees.
4. My extended family. I don’t have children or living siblings, so my aunts, uncles, and cousins are my people. We share a common family heritage and sense of loss for those who are no longer with us. Ditto for my husband’s side of the family.
5. The privilege of being born in America. We whine about all sorts of things that aren’t right, but the truth remains: we live in the greatest country on earth. There may be people who want and deserve more rights and equality, but more of both is available in this country than others. It’s a work in progress, but freedom still rings.
6. Dogs, English Bulldogs in particular, but also mongrels … ill-behaved, digging country dawgs.
7. Coffee and sweet Italian cream. Is it possible to begin the day without that sublime pairing? I don’t think so.
8. Martinis, James Bond-style — shaken not stirred.
9. Fresh country air.
10. Living on the same place as previous generations of my family: the place where my Daddy was born and died. My memories — all that is good — began where I now live. No matter where I go, this place is home.
11. Southern Arkansas University. I earned my first degree from there in 1990 and am now enrolled as student in pursuit of a second degree 26 years later.
12. A 20-plus year career in journalism. The newspaper business provided me with a front row seat to history. I hung off the edge of that seat. My faith in humanity is greater because of that experience.
13. An almost four-year career with the Arkansas Department of Correction. Other than dealing with some political appointees and elected officials, this was a rewarding experience. Serving as the agency’s public information officer allowed me to use my skills in a different way. I’m a believer in social justice, second chances and redemption, so it was a good fit for awhile.
14. Being able to quit work and move home to help care for my terminally ill father. He helped bring me into this world and I was and still am Daddy’s girl. The absolute least I could do is help ease his transition out of it.
15. The smell of fresh-cut grass … and rain.
16. Moonlight, sunlight, firelight … Light, in general.
17. Chocolate in all of its glorious options.
18. Soul-soothing, soul-stirring music.
19. Poetry and classic literature.
20. Opinions different from my own.
21. The opportunities I’ve had to travel.
22. The unexpected joys of everyday life.
23. The experience of movement, wind in my hair, speed.
24. A day of Thanksgiving.
25. The quietness and peace of being alone with my thoughts.
26. The ease in which my thoughts flow from my mind to fingertips to keyboard — and eventually find ink and paper.
27. Favorite pillows and blankets.
28. A good night of sleep.
29. Another day.
30. Having all that I want, need and more.
These are my reasons for being grateful, but I could go on — and that in itself, is another reason for being grateful. My cup runneth over.
Count your blessings and be grateful.
— Shea Wilson is the former managing editor of the El Dorado News-Times. Email her at melsheawilson@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter.com @sheawilson7.