Thursday, November 25, 2010

What Thanksgiving really means... A letter from a true American and what it means to be truly grateful for being one

My sis wrote this email this morning....and it nearly brought tears to my eyes. I still have much to learn from my her. I love you sis.

I Valencia
to Trees Theresia ,Greg Vada Haradiran
date Thu, Nov 25, 2010 at 6:13 AM
subject Happy Thanksgiving
mailed-by gmail.com
signed-by gmail.com

hide details 6:13 AM (5 hours ago)

Hi Mom & Vada,

This Thanksgiving I'm very thankful for my life. I might not have money as much as I want, or you both here with me with Daddy by my side, enjoying the food and drinks like in the past, but I have many reasons to give thanks to God.

I'm thankful that:

- I have a very loving mother, brother, husband, two sons, father and mother in-laws, and extended families. Family IS my gold and family IS the reason why I can be who I am today.

- I have a healthy body and mind. Sounds cliche, but really it makes a difference that I don't have to go in and out doctors like some people I know.

- My families are healthy - that includes you Mom & Dado

- I have sources of income, not only from Meigi but occasional surveys, sweepstakes, checks for food from WIC, etc. However small, these are gifts from God and I sometimes wonder why I'm very lucky in life.

- Friends who care about me and my family; those who always check in with me and praying for our blessings

- I live where I am and I work where I am. Really I think God has arranged the best for me, Mel and our two kids. I'm always sad to read about those who live in unfortunate countries and/or in disaster areas

- I'm free to do what I want; as a woman I can flourish and get involved in the society and make contribution

- I have Barack Obama as the President of the country :) Not any moron

- I can enjoy the finer things in life, even for free, because of my fortunate luck winning sweepstakes, coupons, or deals no one knows about. At Sunday Bistro for example I can get 10% off every time because the owner likes me. Really, I have no idea how these things happen but they do and I feel God's gifts every time.

- I have a mother who prays for me all the time and always caring and loving

- I have a brother who always ready to lend a hand and very loving

- I have a son who is growing about 4 inches every year and very smart, and making me laugh no matter what he does or say

- I have a cute baby who is also growing and just this week started taking a few steps forward

- I have a husband who is really, really loving and caring, and never seem to get tired of taking care of me and the kids every day. He is the first one to wake up and the last one to go to sleep every day.

Even though you both are not eating turkey and pumpkin pie and be with me this Thanksgiving, but I want you to know that you are part of my prayers every day. Thank you for everything you do. Happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Iliki