Hands in the air—two weeks ago, how many of us saw the Halloween decorations flying off the shelves, only to be replaced by Christmas merchandise in stores? It’s like they forgot Thanksgiving, right? What are you doing this year for Thanksgiving?
Giving thanks and being thankful—that’s what our special day is dedicated to each year. I’m especially thankful for my family, those present and those gone before me, for infusing a spirit of gratitude for every gift of love and time shared with people I love in my life. I’m grateful to our new community in Colorado Springs.
Thanksgiving as a national holiday has a storied history. In 1789 George Washington introduced the event as a national holiday. It was not until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln set the final Thursday in November. Fast forward to 1989 President George H.W. Bush, when granted the first official pardon to a turkey, a tradition that continues today, including this year.
Humorously, on television, we’re seeing commercials that pit “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” against the stores who feature “We are allowing our families to be with their loved ones at Thanksgiving this year and so we’ll be closed on Thanksgiving,” taking a stand. Does your family do the campout in front of stores to be first in line, or are you going online to do your shopping at your leisure? The approach to “Black Friday” is often a family tradition, too.
So, I have an idea...Let’s all stop and take a deep breath right now—freeze time for just three minutes. What are you thankful for right now? Is it your ability to be enjoying coffee and reading your book before you leave the house for a job you love? Is it because you have time to enjoy the people in your life, that you are thankful? Have you retired from a lifetime job and now can do whatever you want every day? Did you buy your Dream Home that you worked so hard for ?
No matter what you need, we are here when you need us. Every day, not just this day or this week, we are thankful that you place your trust and confidence in our business to be there for you and your family. From our family to yours, we keep you in our thoughts, prayers, and hearts and we are thankful for each of you. May blessings be yours this Thanksgiving.