Remember to give thanks, always

We live in cynical times.

And there’s much to be cynical about.

But tomorrow — just for a day — try to set that cynicism aside.

It’s easy to be jaded, but it’s also a mistake.

One can be skeptical and thoughtful and ready to challenge the status quo, but don’t let that skepticism, thoughtfulness and challenging attitude blind you.

Don’t let it blind you to the delights right in front of you, the everyday miracles that provide continuing delight.

What are we talking about?

We are talking about:

•A baby’s smile.

•Listening to a 95-year-old tell stories from his childhood.

•Sunsets.

•Sunrises.

•Daffodils and crocuses in spring.

•The silence of a winter night after the first snow.

•Moonlight.

•A good report card from a proud kid.

•Bach, Beethoven and the Beatles.

•Spider webs covered with dew on an early morning.

•Laughter, lots of laughter.

•Discovering a good book.

•Reconnecting with an old friend.

•Making a new friend.

•Hearing the words “thank you” when they are completely unexpected.

•First steps and much later steps assisted by a walker.

•Making someone cry by doing the right thing.

•Art, especially art that connects deeply in the spirit.

•The sound of laughter from kids playing in the neighborhood.

•Choirs.

•Telling a teacher how he or she had influenced your life.

•Berlioz, Dvorak and Mozart.

•Rembrandt.

•Old stories told by old relatives for the umpteenth time.

•Oak, walnut and cherry.

•The Constitution.

•Forgiveness and understanding.

•Second chances.

You get the idea.

This list could go on and on.

And it should.

There is so much to be thankful for, even in our age of cynicism.

Give thanks. And not just tomorrow.

That would be foolish.

Give thanks every day. — J.R.