I Am Thankful For...

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. We usually spend it with my family — which has grown from the five it was when I was little to 12 with spouses and babies.

It's a homey holiday, one filled with good food, and laughter. With the stuffing my mother always makes that I never want to eat. With people poking fun at my distaste for mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. With cranberry sauce, and beans with bacon.

With bounty. 

There is much to be thankful for in our lives. Despite disagreements, the foundation of love upon which our relationships are built is a gift that has been passed down for generations. 

My grandparents started it, with neverending generosity and abundant love. They helped others, even when they couldn't afford to. My mother and her six siblings continued it, showing the 21 grandchildren that have appeared how to support each other with kindness, with open hearts, no matter what appears. 

I am so grateful for that example—and for a family that knows love has no physical boundaries. We won't be together this Thanksgiving, but our hearts will be. 

What fills your heart with gratitude?