“Who does not thank for little will not thank for much.” — Author Unknown

Here in the US, it’s Thanksgiving, a day to overeat, watch too much football, make bets on what family grievances will be aired and try not to strangle your relatives and in-laws.

It’s also a day to pause and reflect on our blessings. No matter how desperate times may seem — and I have known some truly desperate moments in my life — if you dig down deep, there will always be something to be thankful for. It may be a small thing; a warm, fluffy cat, a book that brings you joy, a movie running on television that makes you smile, the taste of a familiar dish that brings back memories of happier times. It might be big things; a roof over your head, making it through one more month with food on your table, a hand to hold for better or for worse. Whatever it is, be thankful and nurture that small flame of warmth in your heart.

For those of you with families, enjoy the warmth, mine any drama for inspiration if necessary, and you can try using the excuse, “I have to write my words!” if it all becomes too much. (You have no idea how many times I’ve done just that.)

For those of you on your own, I wish you well. I’ve been there, too, and I know today and the weeks to come can be some of the darkest of the year in more ways than one.

Best to you and yours today and all the days through the year. If you’re ahead on your word count, reward yourself with another piece of pie.