A Thanksgiving gratitude message

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Gratitude: grat·i·tude /ˈɡradəˌt(y)o͞od/ - noun - The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

Just in the definition, there is so much meaning for not only this day but for every day. As the Thanksgiving turkey, potatoes and stuffing are heaped onto dinner plates, thank yous are given for the ability to have the meal with family and friends. Thanksgiving reminds us to give thanks and to count our blessings. We are blessed and lucky to enjoy life, and we must remember that every day of our life.

Wouldn't it be nice if the appreciation and gratitude expanded for a full 365 days?

We are in a time where hate and unkindness are prevalent in many aspects of our society, especially evident on social media.

I am thankful for many things in life, in community and in business.

Thank you for being a South Tahoe Now reader and helping me keep the community connected and informed.

Thank you to the many people in the community who volunteer and donate time and money to help fill the void of many.

Thank you to my four children, who are now fine adults and forging into the world to make it their own.

While people are different, they share many qualities from values, to hopes we carry to build a better future for our families, our communities, and our country. It's easy to forget our common ground and similarities as we hustle and bustle around our daily routines.

There is a challenge in my Thanksgiving wish for everyone: Smile and be kind.

Sounds simple, doesn't it?

I'd love to see #BeKindSLT become epidemic.

More on that later, in the meantime enjoy your Thanksgiving.

It is not just the festivities that make Thanksgiving special. It is a time to ponder lessons learned in the last year and the happiness we spread around. So, look back at the memories of the year, and look forward to another great year.

With warm appreciation,
Paula