Life is one big journey, full of little stories and memories made in days gone by.
We consider Thanksgiving to be a holiday that lends itself to reflection, a bit of story-telling and some cheer.
This weekend is a natural turning point for most Canadian families as we head into the next season.
Much like the leaves turning colour and the final harvest of remaining fruit and produce, the weather now changes too.
Cool fall nights and the early descent into nighttime remind us the clock is ticking; significant change is around the corner. Winter is on the way.
We had hoped for a reunion of sorts this Thanksgiving, with far-off relatives returning home to share in this holiday weekend. Schedules and commitments hampered that wish this fall, pushing off a larger family gathering until Christmas maybe – if time allows.
There are many families this holiday who sadly do not have the option of putting off a gathering.
Nature, as wondrous as it is, can be cruel too. With little notice, the prospect of tomorrow can quickly change, taking the strong and making them weak. As seasons change, and friends or family pass, we who remain are left with memories of what once was.
For those dealing with loss and grief, or poor health, we hope the goodness of remembering a life well-lived provides comfort.
Recalling good times and reliving hard times comes to us all at one point or another. Holiday times tend to provide enough free time to think of days and events past.
These memories reflect who we are as individuals and, in the broader sense, the history which makes a family special. Sure there will often be common experiences, but there’s usually a twist in the story that makes it unique.
Some months ago we had a query about a special printing project.
It started out as “Dad wants to write a book – some short stories and a bit of family history … Can you help with that maybe?” a son queried.
Months later after a lot of hard work, the book was finally ready to print. This past Wednesday the author picked it up, eager to hand it out over Thanksgiving weekend.
It was a family history of sorts, sure to be enjoyed by kids, grandkids and close friends.
We snuck a peak and got caught up in stories of family, love, business, Sports and fun. For the author, it is yet another achievement in a lifetime, rich in experience and optimism about the future.
As this season passes and winter closes in, maybe more of us can work on our own book. Maybe we need to look at living each day as the gift it is – celebrating those around us, whether family or friends.
Enjoy your loved ones this Thanksgiving.
