And Now We Give Thanks
An often overlooked part of being a writer is that people tend to open up to you. Maybe it's because we're not shy about publicly giving our two cents that folks feel inclined to confide in authors.That's a long way of saying that I know this past year has had a lot of ups and downs for many regulars here. And whether you're a new writer grinding to break in, a pro who made a big score, or a reader riding out uncertainty, I've got one message for everyone.
First, establish that comparing your successes, challenges, or general situation to anyone else's is a fool's game. No two of us are alike, and you never really know what anybody else went through. Make sense?Good. Because the flip side is that even if you spent another year plugging away with seemingly zero progress, or worse, took a big loss, chances are it wasn't good for you to have it ... not yet, anyway.And if you did win big, the "self-made man" is pure fiction. No such animal.Not only did you not create yourself, you alone can't keep yourself in existence. The same goes for everything else that's good.So, whatever your circumstances right now, the only rational response is to be thankful.Because we give thanks where and when it's due. And even divine raps on the knuckles are divine gifts. The son He acknowleges, He also chastises.Remaining thankful for what you have–even if it's just being alive and abble to read–shows trust in God. Which is likewise the only rational position since no one else knows everything, including what will ultimately work out for our good.So whether you're traveling to be with family or heating up a frozen personal pizza, take the time to give thanks for that family, that pizza, or any other undeserved blessings you received this year.Because believe me, they're all undeserved. That's what makes them gifts.Happy Thanksgiving.
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