This week of Thanksgiving seems like it hurtled its way towards us, and suddenly the holidays are upon us.
Perhaps it’s because of the elections, maybe the weather … but for some reason, it feels very sudden.
And that’s probably a good thing, because it’s our chance to take a breath as a nation, and look back. Even as we move forward.
Some of my New York/New Jersey Metro clients are feeling more fearful now than they did a few weeks ago. Some are feeling just fine, even happy. Some are anxious over their finances (even those with much saved in the bank), and some are breathing relief in that area for the first time in a while.
The point is this: there is never a “perfect time” to pause and give thanks. Sure, it makes sense when something nice has happened in your life, but it’s just as important to do so when things look grim.
I’m reminded of how President Lincoln established Thanksgiving as a national holiday in the midst of a roiling civil war. He recognized the power of removing our eyes from that which might provoke fear and anxiety, and remembering the gifts that we might easily forget.
His entire Thanksgiving proclamation (written by his Secretary of State, William Seward) is worth taking in, or even reading aloud, but the opening is particularly powerful:
“The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added …”
Personally, I’m grateful for YOU. I never want to take you for granted.
I’m grateful for the trust you give us to walk with you through sensitive financial waters, and for the opportunity you provide me to pursue a vocation that brings great pleasure to me.
I’m grateful to the people around me who make it even easier to serve you, and I’m thankful to live in a nation and an age in which I can post these kinds of personal notes, and that we get to enjoy a relationship of true meaning, even in the midst of transactional details.
As I gather at my table this week, I will be thinking of you, of Lincoln, and of a nation of many people with many stories, but all of whom can stop to be thankful.
And finally, on a “tax note”, allow me to remind you that although we are busy as we head into the end of the year, we will always make time to help you save on taxes. Give us a call at (718) 953-6455, and let’s get your 2016 tax return set up to save you the most that is legally and ethically possible.
Warmly,
Lillian Turner-Bowman
(718) 953-6455
Lillian’s Professional Services
