‘Much more good than bad’

I have thought a lot about what I am thankful for this year.

In this year of 2020 there seems to have been so much tragedy, despair and hatred in our world. Many have died and many have suffered isolation and loneliness. Many have lost a loved one and that has left a great void in their life. Many have let differences turn into hatred and violence instead of compromise and understanding.

I have stopped watching much news as it seems to stress only our differences and problems. Yes, they exist, but if you really look at our world you can see there is still much more good than bad.

There are far more people reaching out to love and help their communities than there are those smashing and looting them.

There are far more police officers saving lives and keeping communities safe than there are those taking lives.

There are far more people surviving COVID than there are who die from it.

We are blessed to have so many caregivers treating those that are sick.

We are blessed to have so many dedicated teachers helping our children continue to learn.

We are blessed to have so many that protect and serve our country and our communities.

We are blessed to have so many everyday ordinary people that each day reach out to one another and try to help.

I have at times this year given in to despair and hopelessness while facing it all. It is very overwhelming, but I was reminded that as long as we are alive and can put one foot in front of the other, we can move forward.

So I am thankful for my family and my friends.

I am thankful for all those that serve, sometimes at their own peril, to make our lives better.

I am thankful there is so much more that’s good in the world than there is evil, even if we don’t always see it.

I am thankful for the beautiful blue sky, gentle rain, soft wind and glistening snow.

I am thankful for a baby’s smile, a child’s laugh, a puppy’s wagging tail and a kitten’s meow.

I am thankful that I wake up each day and get to share my thoughts with all of you.

Happy Thanksgiving, my friends, and always remember I am Thankful for You!

Elizabeth (Betty) McOsker is program director of Stamford’s Over 60 Club Inc.