Gratitude
From the year my husband Adam and I married, we always hosted Thanksgiving. While setting tables, stuffing turkeys, popping fresh cranberries in simple syrup, mashing potatoes and stealing glimpses of the the Rockettes performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV, I often felt overwhelmed but always thankful. After all, it was Thanksgiving. Then, Adam became sick in 2007, and my Thansgivings were marred because I’d question if at this time next year, he’d still be packing the cavity of the turkey with more stuffing than seemed humanly possible. The paradox is he never wondered because he wasn’t worried. It was through watching a dying man live that I came to understand the ferocious power of gratitude. My ubiquitous Thanksgiving “thankfulness” was easy and fleeting, but Adam’s life, which he now lived in constant gratitude, exalted him. The gift of gratitude, bestowed on Adam the moment the cruel diagnosis was delivered, set his life in motion becoming the seed that sprouted courage, faith and pure happiness within him. To live is the greatest fortune, and this understanding drove him to see goodness where most could not and to do so much good in his short life. His unwavering gratitude became the armor that shielded him from anger or fear of what was to come. I am still mesmerized when I think of him during those years as I often struggle to find the gratitude within me that so easily took possession of him. Still, I know it is the greatest thing to strive for.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Welcome Winter
4 Comments
Roe Iadanza
Memories are the mirrors of the soul reflecting back on all the happiness we were given. Adam was beyond compare a gift to all of us. Memories of Adam still constantly remain cherished and everlasting within or hearts. So very thankful for having all of you in our lives. God Bless….
Roe I
Kim Kelleher
Chris. This is so very good. I was lucky to get to know Adam, even if for 3 short years, because not everyone gets to witness what you described. My trip through cancerland last made me question so many things and feel so untethered – I need to strive to be more like Adam.
I am hoping that your blog is a warm up for a book.
LOVE YOU!! MISS YOU!!
Michele Fischer
Beautiful Chris! Beautifully and artistically stated! I love what you’re doing. Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving and most importantly a healthy one! Adam was as genuine as they come. Didn’t need to know him well…, it just oozed from his pores. Great lesson and message. Love to your boys as well!
Diane
What a beautiful reflection. May we all learn from and be inspired by Adam. Happy Thanksgiving!