Until we became a military family, I never quite understood the sacrifice that they paid. I knew it in theory but now it has become so much more real.
We are giving up the presence of our son at the Thanksgiving table this year. It is hard for everyone to accept the first of what will likely be many holidays without him. It has given me such a greater appreciation for their service to our country and the families who are without their loved ones.
Suddenly thankfulness has taken on a whole new meaning. While I have always appreciated my family and am grateful for being a mom, never has it been felt more deeply.
Yet I have to carry on. I have to somehow put a smile on my face, get the house ready, prepare the food and be the one who sets the temperature in our home.
My mood will affect everyone else. So it’s up to me to put aside my sadness and allow joy to fill me instead.
What a weight that we moms sometimes have to carry. I think about other moms, who are going through much tougher situations.
For instance, I’m thinking about the mom who is away from home and with her son in a hospital after he was in a serious car accident in Japan. She is praying for the brain damage to not be permanent and for him to awake.
I’m also thinking about the mom whose son is in a hospital fighting cancer. They are praying for the money to come in so he can receive stem cell treatment.
No, I may not have my son at the table with us this year. But he is healthy. It’s amazing how differently things look when you put it all into perspective. Suddenly you have so much to be thankful for.
Mom, there may be some difficult or troubling circumstances in your life. But there is always someone who has it much worse.
Don’t stress over whether the turkey comes out right or not. Don’t get worked up about the mess the kids are making. There are moms who wish they had a turkey to prepare and children at their feet.
Appreciate what you have and be thankful for your blessings.
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