It's a tradition. Every Thanksgiving I sit down and write out what I'm thankful for.
Then I put it down and reread it after feasting on an abundant meal.
Every year when I sit down to write my Thankful List...my heart opens.
This year...has been an especially challenging year for me in many ways.
As someone who looks after homeless, helpless, voiceless animals, several of our dedicated volunteers moved out and two of us carry the load--shopping for cat food and feeding 21 cats daily. But we gladly carry that cross for the cats are all happy and healthy but...
One of our Riverfront Cats was found dead, electrocuted. Nikki, was a special kitty.
One of my cousins was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully she beat it for now.
And most recently another dear person I knew, died suddenly of a heart attack, at young age of 37.
So this morning when I sat down with my cup of coffee, my tablet and pen I wasn't sure what to expect. I labeled the top...
"My 2011 THANKFUL LIST"
...and then I just stared blankly at the page.
Eventually, like it had a mind of it's own, my hand made its way to the paper and...
Then I started to write...and write...and write.
The only thing flowing faster than the ink from my pen were my tears of happiness and joy.
As I was writing I realized that I have more love in my heart and more to be thankful for this year than I can ever remember.
After pouring out a record of over 3 handwritten pages...I felt like something was missing.
It didn't take me long to figure out what it was...
So I freshened up my coffee (coffee happened to be on my 2011 Thankful List) bolted like a kitty who's tail had been stepped on to my office a few feet away, Sat down at my trusty computer and I am now sending this note to YOU.
THANK YOU!
I am so thankful that our paths have crossed. Thankful for your friendship, for your interest and well wishes for me and the Riverfront Cats. It's a labor of love. The hardest work I ever have done and nonpaying, but it is the most rewarding and uplifting experience. The cats are grateful and they show me! Without your emails, Facebook comments, your moral support and other kind acts, I don't know if I could make a difference.
Wow! I feel totally complete now! Thank you for listening and letting me share.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and I pray you find your thankful place no matter what challenges you may have had this year.
Thankfully,
Christine Michaels
Now on Facebook
You read all those sad stories about homeless pets but you can't rescue or foster them. You feel frustrated and helpless. But you can make a difference! This Christmas a small donation of $20 or even $10 goes a long way to helping the voiceless and homeless animals. Thank you for giving back. www.riverfrontcats.com
That was a wonderful post - straight from the heart with the love and caring that I have come to know as the person you are. I am grateful to have you in my life and I so appreciate all you do to help kitties in need. You are one of the special ones, Christine!
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