An annual day of Thanksgiving began not with Pilgrims but Lincoln, who recognized the importance of giving thanks even in the darkness of a terrible war. 2020 has been hard--not 1863 hard, but hard. It's as important to give thanks in hard times as good times. Some gratitude:

I'm thankful for mountains, deserts, beaches, and forests, which bring peace and serenity to tumultuous times.

I'm thankful for the many birds that visit our yard and remind me to look for small, simple beauties.

I'm thankful for music.

I'm thankful for good parents (and in-laws). I'm glad my children get to love my mom. Each child we've welcomed into our family has brought a fresh, unexpected wave of grief for the relationship they won't get with my dad.

I'm thankful for the loved ones I won't get to gather with this Thanksgiving. I'm especially thankful that I actually like the people I've been home with for work and school for several months. I know many aren't so fortunate.