Fresh Perspectives

Missing Holiday:  $100 Reward for Finding Thanksgiving.

Obviously the above is a joke, but really, it's hard to get down to the true meaning of this week's holiday when Christmas has already taken over our lives (No offense, Christmas!).  I'm guilty of it too, though.  I've already begun planning (and stressing) about Christmas gifts for friends and family.  I had to refrain from renting "It's a Wonderful Life" at the BlockBuster.  And my roomate and I already have a miniature Christmas tree sitting on top of our kitchen table.

Even when we do think of Thanksgiving, it's hardly with the right attitude.  We either look forward to all the yummy food we're about to eat or worry about the number of calories we will consume this year.  Rarely do we truly give thanks for our MANY blessings.  (Which is why this week's posts will be dedicated to exactly that.)  Here's a few items from my 'I'm Thankful For' list of 2007.

I, Kendall, am thankful for:

• my mom and dad, who have loved and supported me throughout my 19 years
• my big brother, who loves me in his own special way (even if it's shown with a little teasing) 
• my extended family, who I am lucky to be very close to
• my friends, who never fail to make me smile
• my country, and the freedom I often take for granted

To be continued....but in the meantime, start making your own 'I'm Thankful For' list.  You'll begin to realize just how lucky you really are.

Until next time....Aloha!