Metal Meredith

My Three Things
From back before I can remember doing so, my mom has made us do the traditional Thanksgiving chore each year. We all would have to take turns around the table while eating to give 3 things that we were thankful for. I remember a lot of pets being named, material possessions being mentioned, and many many boyfriends being deemed “the one”. Even though we did this every year, I still have a hard time coming up with those 3 things.

It certainly isn’t because I don’t have things to be thankful for. Not in the least. I agree that we are all very thankful for our good health, for our good fortunes and family. We are all thankful that we live in a country that lets us be equal, vote and be free. The problems arise at what is a blessing enough to grab those coveted 3 top spots. Those 3 top awards of “most thankful for”. I am giving it a go this year for all to read.

This past year, I was lucky enough to be forced to become a stay at home mom. As I was going through the emotions of being laid off from a job for the first time in my life, I started to realize what a positive thing this was. I have now spent over 6 months at home spending day in and day out with my daughter. I am able to support my husband in his dreams and aspirations. I am able to take time and enjoy days instead of waiting for a weekend or sitting at the door waiting for Phil to come home.

I think, and its about time, that I have finally grown out of my age of disrespect. This past year, I have been able to see people more for who they are. People are more to me now than ‘coffee drinker’, ‘record buyer’ and ‘co-worker’. Strangers are now becoming real people with mood swings, smiles, interesting stories, helpful comments, and a much needed laugh now and then. I have taken to being more patient with someone in a bad mood, knowing that they surely have a reason. I, much to my family’s disbelief, have attempted to get beyond my own judgemental behavior when it comes to the soccer moms and sorority girls. Sure, I am still cynical at times. But if I never was that person again, you all would disown me.

Lastly, I am thankful for who I am, who I am allowed to be, and who I am able to become. I wake up in the morning and stop for a second and really look at myself. New wrinkle? Maybe. New line? Maybe. Gained a pound or two? Probably. It just never gets me down. When I see myself, its through the eyes of my husband and my child. Those two love me without boundaries. I am able each day to be upbeat and positive. I am not going through life self deprecating and sad. I know who I am, what I like and make decisions that reflect my whole self. I am not sure where I am going in life. I have a lot of things to figure out, but I know that I am able to do anything I want. It is my most grateful thing this year, I am finally comfortable with who I am.

I encourage all of you to do the same this year. My mom would really get a kick out of it. Feel free to post in the comments 3 things you are thankful for. Then, email it to your friends and family. Its amazing how reading what someone else is grateful for makes you think of your own. Its like passing on a good vibe.

Also, I can’t thank everyone enough for the comments left about my Griffon. They gave me the comfort that I needed. It was wonderful of some people to share their own stories about their own pets. I can’t thank you enough for the outpouring of support and love.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Meredith