I don't know how much more I can take of impeachment news, or of Trump's disheartening actions. Making a hero out of a war criminal/murderer and reducing SNAP funding are just the latest of his efforts to degrade and mock the country. Whether he's doing it himself or being "handled," as some are suggesting, the result is the same.
It was with such thoughts in mind that I decided to take Thanksgiving off. Instead of sharing dinner with friends or family I left the day for me, with the promise that I would avoid TV, news, social media, email; everything. I would spend the day silently, remembering and reading, and even thinking a little.
It was a good day to do nothing. It was cold outside and the gas fire kept me company. At dusk I lit some candles and poured a glass of wine. You might guess that living alone means I'd have had enough of silence and alone time, but—to my surprise—it doesn't work that way. Most of my days are reasonably busy; sometimes too busy.
So Thanksgiving was a gift. I spent some time meditating, a practice I am constantly telling myself I should do more of, but seldom do. I rummaged through the cluttered shelves of my mind and made a long list of all the people and things I am thankful for. It surprised me a little, how long the list was; how lucky I am to have the life I've had, how grateful for all the wonderful people who've shared it.
But Friday morning I was back on the iPad, listening to news and catching up on Twitter and email, and muttering OMG every thirty seconds. Life and time will hustle us forward, but we can choose to join the rush or take a break from it. And remembering that we always have a choice is one more thing to be thankful for.
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