Thanksgiving, a time for friends, family and food. Unfortunately, often in the rush of the holiday the meaning is lost. We spend our time preparing meals, preparing homes and getting ready for the dreaded “black Friday”. We may take time to say a quick prayer before the meal. Some families may even take a minute to say what they are thankful for. But really, how much time do we spend on Thanksgiving being thankful? I’d like to take a moment to tell you some of the things I am thankful for.
I am thankful that I was given a new lease on life. This surgery has literally been a life-altering process. It has allowed me to take control of my life in a way I never thought possible. I have made changes and seen progress in just ten weeks that I could not have imagined. Not to mention that due to the risk factors in my life as well as my newly discovered liver issues, this surgery is literally a life-saving experience. None of this would have been possible without Dr. Wallace and his staff. A staff that has walked with me every step of the way and been there for anything I needed. That applies to everyone in the practice. From Dr. Wallace, Deb and Nedra who have addressed every medical concern I’ve had all the way to Keri who handled the endless paperwork and insurance requirements. She was the first person I ever spoke to in the office and to this day is one of the nicest people I’ve never met.
I am thankful for family and friends that have been nothing but supportive. For co-workers who picked up the slack while I was out and now show genuine interest in my daily well-being. A pastor, who has become a great friend as well. For this Web site and the support and concern shown by those who have left feedback. For the opportunity that writing this blog has given me to touch the lives of others. We were put in each others paths to take this journey toward health and wellness by a God who knows what I need before I do. A father who tells me frequently how proud he is of me and the progress I am making. A wife who loved me when there was a lot more of me to love and continues to love me as we struggle and make these changes to our family.
I have a challenge now for all of you who are reading this. Take the time this year to truly reflect on what you are thankful for. Then, take some action. Say a prayer, not just a quick “Grace” but a real prayer of thanks. Pick up a phone, give someone a hug. Make sure that those for whom you are thankful know it. Don’t just assume they know. With each day we are given the opportunity to touch the lives of those around us. Make sure that for at least this day you take the steps needed to do this. And then, begin taking those steps every day.
| | The following is feedback received for this blog:
Scott:
I think your blog is great. I especially liked the last line of your most recent blog, which should remind all of us, those who need to lose 10 pounds, 25 pounds, 60 pounds, or 100 pounds or more, that it needs to be a daily thing. You have to decide every day that you will do it right. Messing up one day doesn't blow the whole plan.
Too many people see the big picture (60 pounds) and forget to look at the daily walk--the 1/2 pound or pound a week, or simply NOT gaining this week--that is necessary to achieve the bigger goal.
Thank you for your transparency and your willingness to share your journey. It is an encouragement to many.
-GR |