By MICHELLE BERAN
Cottonwood Extension District
As I ran to the grocery store on Friday to pick up a few remaining items, I thought about my grocery list for the week.
While it certainly included things like green beans, chicken broth, and extra paper plates, I considered the other list that I needed to focus on to prepare.
A list that includes Thankfulness in many forms. Thankfulness for our family’s health; thankfulness for our kids being able to travel to spend a few days with us; thankfulness for family and friends far and wide who will share greetings whether in person or via text, social media, or even a phone call!A list that also includes thankfulness for communities that care and support small businesses, families in need, and organizations that help at so many levels. That list also includes thankfulness for leaders across our county and the Cottonwood Extension District who have a vision and want to improve the quality of life and livelihood of citizens.
My Thankfulness list also includes my 4-H families, volunteers, and community partners. Helping youth have and improve skills in communication, teamwork, and career readiness is important to me and to the long-term health and success of our communities!
My Gram lived by the adage that there was always room at her table for one more. She didn’t grow up with much and certainly made do her whole life but that never stopped her from being thankful and sharing what she had with family, friends, and neighbors. I do my best to carry on that ideal at our football tailgate, in my kitchen, and at many other meals. I hope that I also carry that ideal into a seat at a discussion table, involvement in an activity, and in caring for others in my community.
What is on your list of Thankfulness this year? A beautiful sunset? A new library book? A co-worker who makes you laugh just when you need it most? A friend who checks in “just because”? Whatever it is, I wish you a blessed day of thankfulness.
Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at [email protected] or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.