5+ Things We Sometimes Forget on Thanksgiving

It’s Thanksgiving in Canada and that means sitting around the table and reciting the many things we’re thankful for. Friends, family and the food usually get top billing but we think there are a few often forgotten things to be thankful for.

1. Basic Human Rights. With news headlines about human rights violations in places like Syria, Morocco and Sri Lanka, not to mention the Olympic spotlight on Russia, it’s time to be thankful that we still enjoy a pretty good life here in Canada. It’s especially important this year as the proposed Charter of Quebec Values threatens human rights much closer to home. 

2. The Birds and the Bees. We’re not talking about getting jiggy with it (although, we see no reason not to give thanks for that). We’re saying let’s be grateful for the birds that spread the seeds, and the bees that make the trees and flowers bloom – wondrous nature. With bees in decline, now is a good time to give them some props – not to mention how sweet their honey makes your feast-recovery, ginger tea. 

3. Unconditional Love.  Despite our foibles and failures, there are certain people that we can count on to love us anyway. That’s something to really be thankful for. And, while we’re being thankful why not be grateful for your own ability to love like this. It’s a gift regardless of the direction it’s flowing.

4. Challenges. When was the last time you were thankful for the trials and tribulations that you’ve faced? Every time we overcome some adversity, we grow. We’re not suggesting you order up a heaping plate of challenges but at least be thankful for the ones that made you the fabulous person you are today.

5. Inner Peace. You know that feeling that everything is right with the world and you’re going to be okay? Yeah, that sensation can be fleeting which is all the more reason to be thankful for them. It’s the moments of inner peace that bring us back to the now and keep us grounded. Let’s all stop and have one together, right now.

And because there's an infinite amount of things to be thankful for...

BONUS #1. Strangers Who Smile. It’s easy to get lost in our own world, keep our heads down, our music turned up and our mind focused on the task of getting from A to B. Every once in a while, a perfect stranger does something so rare that we are forced out of our daily daze; they smile. And, we smile back. Ah, humanity – you are a beautiful thing.

BONUS #2. Spontaneous Hugs. A hug is magical. It can alleviate sadness or elevate happiness and when it happens unexpectedly and for no real reason it makes us feel special. So, here’s to spontaneous hugs and a ‘thanks’ to those who give them. Right back at you. *hug*

Life is pretty good so when you’re beaming over a feast-laden table and raising a glass to those you’re sharing it with, don’t forget to take a moment and be thankful for the not-so-obvious things. We know there’s one thing we’ll be adding to our list – you!

Make the Fast Friday Five list grow. What often-forgotten things are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Share abundantly in the comments below.