By Ben Rodgers
Editor
By the time you read this I will have likely been in sweatpants in a reclined position on my couch under a blanket, as I worked on crossword puzzles and struggled to stay awake.
I wouldn’t have it any other way, and for my ability to relax peacefully, I am thankful.
This year I was fortunate enough to host my family in my tiny abode that I share with my wonderful girlfriend, for whom I am thankful.
Turkey was cooked in the Crock-Pot, sides were prepared with care and everyone left full and content.
Is the cooking, cleaning, planning and shopping leading up to Thanksgiving stressful?
Of course, but the ability to spend time with my family is something I am thankful for.
The fact that I have a roof over my head and the ability to provide a large meal for those I love shouldn’t be taken lightly.
That of course is because of my job, the one where I write for and edit the very paper you are reading this in.
I am thankful for that job, waking up each morning and looking forward to doing something important that I care deeply about.
I am thankful for each and every person reading this. Because without your support I wouldn’t have this job I am so passionate about.
It’s important to step back and not take things for granted.
I have been on the other side too.
In my younger days I spent more than one Thanksgiving more than 600 miles from the family I care about while cutting my teeth to gain the experience that brought me here.
But I am still thankful I was able to find people nice enough to take me in and offer me a meal.
When that happened seven and eight years ago I would have never imagined being where I am today – back in Wisconsin, working a job I love and having just hosted Thanksgiving for my family.
It’s the simple things that matter the most.
I am thankful the road so far has been a winding one with many challenges and positive surprises along the way, because it has led to where I am now.
No one has an easy path in life, but I can attest that any challenges people face will make them stronger, smarter and more grateful for what they achieve later.
It’s my personal belief that when someone does well, they should build a bigger table. Not a bigger wall.
Those who are helped need it, and they are facing the same challenges many of us have endured and overcome.
If you can help others, do so, and be thankful that you have the ability to impact someone’s life in a positive way.
Unfortunately, not everyone has family to spend the holidays with, can purchase a large amount of food, or has a warm home to spend it in.
If more people care deeply about this, the holidays can be better for those less fortunate and more people can be thankful that somebody cares about them.
Do your best to make a difference in someone’s life that makes them feel thankful.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Press Times.