Thursday – 11/25/2015

“If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.” – Native American Saying

There’s always something to be thankful for. I have certainly been thankful for this recent weather in Northeast Ohio. Things are just so much more tolerable when it’s 50° outside as opposed to the 15° we’re accustomed to this time of year (especially when it comes to pouring a foundation on a new property).

And even though the unseasonable temperatures will be gone soon, that doesn’t mean one still can’t be grateful.

I think the majority of most people’s “thanks giving” can fall into two types.

Type A – being consciously aware and grateful for the people and things currently in your life. No subtle or not-so-subtle reminders (i.e. Thanksgiving) are needed to appreciate what you have and the blessings you’ve received.

Type B –becoming grateful only after realizing who or what has been lost, taken away, or let go of. That’s not to say that you didn’t appreciate what you had, you were just never completely consciously aware of how great that gift might have been. However, I hope you never find yourself having only attained the appreciation for something after you no longer have it.

Many a musician and rock band have made a living by penning songs about Type B. And although those ballads can offer a catchy tune to get stuck in your head, it’s not the ideal way you want to live.

Sometimes being a “Type A” isn’t such a bad thing.

Speaking of musicians, I spent a wonderful evening last weekend with the Voegele family watching Kate perform on a tour stop at The Music Box in downtown Cleveland. It’s always great to catch her live and hear some of the new stuff she’s working on. This past Friday was no exception.

I’ll be back there this Saturday with my family to celebrate 100 years of Frank Sinatra featuring Michael Sonata & The Dave Banks Big Band. Another thing to be thankful for, the power of music.

Check out the beautiful video from Boys Hope Girls Hope, of which I’m proud to be a past Pillar of Hope recipient. It features some kids who truly know what it means to give thanks.

Finally, I’d like to wish everyone a very special Thanksgiving. Please make sure you take many moments to consciously be aware and grateful for the gifts you have in your life. Just remember: It’s okay to be Type A!

Stand Strong!

Scott