On this day of reflection following the traditional Thanksgiving dinner last night, I realize how much I have to give thanks for. 

First of all, I’m glad to still have my mother with me, and although getting older, is still strong and active, seen above visiting with me in Honolulu, where we spent our Thanksgiving with family and friends.

Second, all this has been possible due to my father who spent the better part of his 85 years fighting and continually providing for me, so that I could get to where I am today. In his passing, he has taught me that life is temporal, and that I should enjoy the time I have here fully instead of letting it all pass by me before it is too late, which is why I’ve now reached a point in my life where I can let go, and not worry about taking every job that comes, and instead take some time off every now and then and spend some time with my family and friends.

I am thankful that I am able to do this now, due to the strong work ethic my parents instilled in me, and not having to live paycheck to paycheck, so can sit back and reflect on my life, and the lives of those around me, some of which have been forced to work today and yesterday and didn’t had the opportunity to be thankful.

So it is through that reflection that I give thanks, and hope that those still struggling to find something to be thankful for can remain strong and perceiver.