YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT

When I say Happy Thanksgiving or I think of gratitude, I likely think differently about it than you would expect. The story I will share is not an accomplishment. It was a stage that prepared me for other stages that helped me string together seasons of improvement. It is not “winning” the race. “Winning” will not happen until I hear the statement, “well done thou good and faithful servant.” Until then, I travel with you. I have mile markers of significance. Thanksgiving is one of those markers.

In November of 2017, I was in a particularly challenging season. I was mentally stretched and physically limited with few available options. I was away from home and generally felt like the world’s biggest failure. In that dark place, I learned a tremendous lesson from a dry piece of turkey.

It was Thanksgiving and I had a plate with a piece of dried-up turkey, nasty-looking peas, and some mashed potatoes (allegedly they were mashed potatoes). I had done a good job of putting my circumstances out of my mind. However, in this moment reality became vivid. That turkey showed me just how far my life had unraveled. I was faced with a decision that at the time seemed trivial. In retrospect, it was my declaration to march forward.

I had options. I could pout, cry, and fall apart to make people around me feel bad. I could be defiant and throw everything I could get my hands on. I also had the option to eat the meal…sustain myself and continue forward with my dreams, plans, and hope. At that moment I ate the turkey.

My feelings were sad, and my outlook was grim. But my plan was sure, and I believed I had so much more to accomplish. On that day, I made progress in the most powerful way I could. I ate EVERYTHING on my plate. I then went back to my forward operating routine for that day. That day turned into weeks. Those weeks turned into months. Those months turned into years. Those years brought me here. This year brought me you.

I am forever grateful. I share this very personal story for many reasons. In this case, I share my life lens through which I see opportunities and challenges.

When I say I believe in you and challenge your trajectory, I believe it.

When I say we are coming for EVERYTHING they said we couldn’t have…you better believe it!

In this season, find time to pause and reorient your mind and spirit. Understand that you are appreciated.

From my journey and my home to yours, have a Great Thanksgiving!