My Thanksgiving is Perpetual Raising the Barr Weekly Memo: Issue 359

I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.
(Henry David Thoreau)

As I look around my office, my home, my community and business sphere, I stop to take notice and am filled with gratitude. It’s almost unimaginable that 44 years ago when I arrived here with $200 in my pocket that I would be enjoying the life that I have worked hard to create in a country that has offered so much opportunity.

Thanksgiving is truly American and ex-pats living abroad continue this tradition wherever they reside. As I sit with my family on this holiday, I will be reminded of those gone from our family whose place at our table is now empty. I will be reminded of those who are in need as we volunteer this day in the community serving and delivering meals to the less fortunate and dropping off cookies at the Police and Fire stations for the men and women who must work this day to protect all of us.

William Arthur Ward wrote: Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.

Thanks, are not quite enough but my gratitude for all that I have been provided and worked for rekindles the spark of joy in my life and creates enduring happiness.

May your holiday be surrounded with blessings and warmth and be filled with gratitude during this Thanksgiving and beyond.

Thank You!

Chad