"Daddy What Are You Thankful For This Thanksgiving?"

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So the other night, my 6 year-old daughter Isabelle, had a homework assignment where she had to articulate what she is thankful for this year. When she finished with her list of things she looked at me and said, "Daddy, what are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?" "Isabelle, daddy is thankful that he has so much to be thankful for," I replied. She rolled her eyes and gave me this look as if I didn't really answer her question. Isabelle then said, "No really, what are you thankful for daddy?" I knew she wasn't going to let me off of the hook so I replied, "Daddy is thankful for everything in his life!" She contemplated my answer for a moment and then said, "that's cool." And with that, there were no further questions. However, my little 6 year-old had planted a seed that led me to reflect and think about the things I am truly thankful for. Here are a few things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving:

I am thankful for my loving wife Esther, who stands beside me and supports of all my ventures, is the mother of our children, brings order to our household out of the daily chaos and most of all is an attractive woman and overall beautiful human being. She challenges me by getting me out of my comfort zones in order to help me grow as a person, inspires me to want to accomplish more and increase my sharing with others, provides unconditional love as my partner, friend and Soulmate. I am also thankful that she is finding her passion and is setting a direction for herself aside from being "Mommy." Already this year she has played a significant role in helping a few not-for-proffit organizations complete some major initiatives and has begun the creation of her own business. 

I am thankful for my six children Ryan (23), Kristin (19), Orielle (15), Gabrielle (12), Isabelle (6) and Noelle (2)! The challenges that my older children present as opportunities for me to be an effective parent as well as the pleasure that I feel when sharing in their accomplishments. As for my younger children, the feeling that fills my heart when they have no expectations other than me just being "Daddy" ...and now "Grand Daddy"!

I am thankful for my health and the health of my family. Although I have always been thankful for my health, there has become an even greater appreciation since my motorcycle accident three years ago. I cherish the air that I breathe, the fact I can fill my lungs with each breath, that the pains I do have are manageable and remind me that I am alive.

I am thankful for my parents (who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary this year) and grandparents who have brought me into this world, provided for me as a child and taught me valuable life lessons, instilling key core values within my being.

I am thankful for my brother and two sisters who have been there for me as supportive siblings and have challenged me when I needed to be challenged.

I am thankful for my mother and father-in-law, brother and sister-in-law (and son) who are very sharing individuals always ready to provide assistance, guidance, support and friendship.

I am thankful for all of my aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who have been there for me as a child and the ones who are still around today. In some way, they have all played a role in teaching me valuable lessons and provided me with memories I will cherish forever. Yes, and I am thankful for Facebook which has helped me reconnect with family members and meet new ones!

I am thankful for my doctors and trainer who keep my body healthy as well as my spiritual teachers/community who tend to the health of my mind & soul.

I am thankful for all the men and women who have served our country to defend its' freedoms and keep the liberties that I enjoy today. I have quite a few family members and friends this especially pertains to.

I am thankful for my Circle of Friends who have been there for me, accept me as I am and share in many happy times through our parties, memorable vacations, family get togethers or just knowing they are there.

I am thankful for my past/present Business Associates and Clients who keep me accountable as a business professional, allow me to exercise my management creativity, accept my talents in bringing solutions to their business needs and ultimately contributing to my livelihood.

I am thankful for all of life's challenges that have been put before me thus far. Though some of them have been pretty tough, they have not killed me but have made me stronger.

I am thankful for opportunities that have presented themselves where I was able to share with others and make a difference for them in some way. 

In closing, I am extremely Happy and Appreciative that I Have So Much to be Thankful For!

Have a Healthy and Happy Thanksgiving!

All the Best,

Ron

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