I am writing this on Thanksgiving Day, and I have so much to be thankful for.  Let me name but a few.

I was born into a loving family more than 95 years ago.

I was blessed with a wonderful mother and father, four brothers, and three sisters, all of whom were very dear to me.  Later I was fortunate to be an uncle to 24 very special nephews and nieces whom I love and have loved.  My grand-nephews and nieces and grand-grands are now beyond my counting.  

In addition to her love and care, my mother always bathed me in her prayers, and I was deeply conscious of that fact.  I wished to never disappoint her or my father.

I committed to following the Lord Jesus from a very early age; and though I often stumble on the path,  I always seek to do the right thing.  I endeavor to treat all others with love and respect.   

I had a happy childhood and remember my teenage years with great fondness, although I, like many young people, had my share of romantic disappointments and heartbreak.

I benefitted from a good education, fell in love with books, and did well in my studies – though I must admit that I have a very low energy level and failed to make full use of my talents.  I was good at thinking outside the box, but I often took an easy path rather than seeking challenges.

I married a beautiful girl who truly loved me and whom I loved dearly, and we had 63 good years together.  I miss her.

My wife and I were blessed with five wonderful, loving sons and six dear grandchildren.  Now there are six great-grandchildren.  They are all blessed with good health and good looks, and I pray for their happy, fruitful lives.

I served during the Korean War, and I was on my way to the front line when the fighting stopped.  How fortunate can one be?

I had a successful career in the Federal government (National Security Agency), but several factors kept me from advancing to the very top levels (low energy, family-first attitude, illnesses, and my resistance to wasteful money projects being pushed by top management).

I am now living in a senior retirement village, having moved here two weeks ago.  I look forward to making new friends and engaging in new activities.  However, I will continue to attend my old church, and I will frequently visit with friends in my old neighborhood – at least while I continue to drive.

I have been blessed richly, and for that I am truly thankful.  I pray that I have been and will continuew to be a blessing to others.