Family.
Family is one of those words, regardless of who said it first, the blood relation of the family, the context it’s used, or the language it is spoken in, gives one the idea of an unbreakable connection. Now, sometimes, people have good family situations, and bad situations, non-existent family situations or blended family situations, new family situations or old family situations, and for the most part, you are bonded to the family with which you are given. But, sometimes the unexpected occurs and family can morph into all kinds of mixes.
Regardless, today is Thanksgiving, and I don’t know where I would be without my family. To my ever-loving, ever-inspirational, dear to my heart, Cook family, I love you more and more each day. You have blessed me with many a role model. Poppop, you are the wisest man I have ever had the pleasure to know. Nannan, your grace and class could put the Queen to shame. Auntie Carole, your kind natured strength is so very admirable. Uncle John and Aunt Jan, you remind me that love and perseverance can move mountains. Mom, watching you get up every morning, smile on your face despite any situation gives me the courage to do the same. Kristin, your independence and beauty brings light to the world. Courtney, your art and little one bring so many people joy. Jason, there isn’t a thing you haven’t tried, and there isn’t a thing you can’t do. And finally Justin, one foot in front of the other I have watched you grow into a man. Though at times it was not as easy as it may have looked from the outside, you will never ever give up on your dreams. You all have taught me how to love, how to dream, how to be kind, how to be honest, and how to strive for greatness with all that I do.
Family can teach you things about yourself and help you discover the world in ways you never could have imagined. So here I am, 3,848 miles away, in a country where Thanksgiving is not celebrated, I feel nothing less than a full heart knowing I have them. I am thankful today and everyday to have such wonderful people who love me, and such wonderful people to love. Everything I do, I do for you, and our future Cook family.
I encourage everyone abroad today to reach out to all of their families to remind them, amidst your distance and schedule, that you are thankful for the opportunities they have helped you create for yourself. We couldn’t be experiencing the things we are without them.
THANKFUL FOR YOU GUYS.