A Thanksgiving Day’s Journey

empty asphalt road between trees

The Thanksgiving day is winding down. The last traces of warmth linger in my home. I find myself reflecting on everything today held. There’s a special kind of quiet at the end of a holiday. It is the soft exhale after the cooking, the conversations, the memories, and the moments of stillness. And in that quiet, gratitude has a way of rising to the surface.

Today felt like another stretch of my journey. It was another few miles traveled down a road. I’m still learning to appreciate its twists and turns. I’ve always believed that life is a path we walk or, in my case, wheel down without a perfect map. We discover the route only as we go. Sometimes we glide forward with ease, and other times, the road tests us. Detours appear when we least expect them—some difficult, some joyful, all of them meaningful.

And today, as I look back, I’m reminded of just how much I have to be grateful for. This journey has been winding and unpredictable.

This morning began with Jason, whose presence is one of my greatest blessings. His support and companionship anchor me, especially on the days when the road feels uneven. I’m thankful for him every single day, but today I felt that gratitude a little deeper.

Surley, my incredible service dog, was by my side as always—calm, loyal, and wonderfully intuitive. He doesn’t just help me navigate the world; he shares the journey with me. Watching him relax today between tasks reminded me of how much trust and love we share.

I cooked a simple Thanksgiving dinner, and even in its simplicity, it felt like an accomplishment worth celebrating. There was something comforting in preparing food for myself and Jason, something grounding in the warmth of the kitchen. It reminded me that gratitude lives in small things just as much as grand ones.

I sat in my apartment. It’s the same building I’ve been fortunate to call home for more than 15 years. I felt an immense wave of appreciation for the stability and familiarity around me. Home isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling, a continuity in a world that is always shifting.

Throughout the day, I found myself thinking of my friends and family. We may not always see each other or talk as often as my heart wishes. However, the connection is still there. It is steady and meaningful. Gratitude doesn’t ask for perfection; it asks for presence, even if that presence comes in quiet ways.

And today, I was especially thankful for my health. I appreciate the good days. I am grateful for the privilege of having access to doctors and care when the days are harder. It’s something I never take for granted.

Most of all, as the day draws to a close, I’m grateful. I am thankful for the opportunity to continue living my true, authentic life. This journey has taken me through smooth stretches and sharp detours alike, but each moment has shaped me. Every day teaches me something new—about myself, about others, about what it means to grow.

We don’t know how long our road is or where it ultimately leads. But today reminded me to treasure each mile. To honor the people and companions who travel beside me. To appreciate the stillness and the chaos, the clarity and the confusion. To celebrate every moment I’m lucky enough to live authentically and fully.

And tonight, I’m grateful that you are here—sharing a part of this journey with me.

Happy Thanksgiving.

May the road ahead bring you gratitude, warmth, and the quiet magic of unfolding possibilities.


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