In the spirit of the season, we’re going to briefly interrupt our current series of Points, based on our new book, with a heartfelt message.

I try to live my life each day in a thankful frame of mind. Some days, especially during these uncertain times, that’s not easy. But here’s something that, fortunately, I’m reminded of time and again: I’m thankful for all of you who have helped our business grow this year and in years past. And this week—this Thanksgiving week—seems like the perfect time to tell you that.

Like many folks, I also consider Thanksgiving to be the ideal time to relax and enjoy family in all its forms—immediate and extended, inherited and created. So right now—before the turkey is even thawed—I’m asking you to block all thoughts of the craziness going on in our world, and channel that energy into enjoying some valuable family time. And I challenge you to some careful and thoughtful consideration of exactly what you are thankful for this year.

The older I get, I find myself viewing life differently—literally and figuratively. My actual eyesight has changed (as it tends to do when we grow older), but age also has caused my “life lenses” to change. These days, I see myself being thankful for so many things and many of these things are quite simple.

For example, the sweetest words I’ve heard all year were my children saying, “Daddy’s home” at the end of any given workday. “Hugs and kisses” is something else they often say, and I’m grateful for that each time I hear it. I’m thankful for each big ol’ belly laugh I enjoy with my brother, who can make me laugh until my sides hurt.

I’m grateful when my wife says, “It will be OK.” I appreciate each time a client says, “Thank you for what you do for us.” And I’m always grateful when my best friend says, “Wanna go fishin’?”

I love when an old pair of my blue jeans is loose in the waist. I’m thankful when I can lift someone up by telling them they are on my prayer list or when I ask them to pray for me and they do so. Times like these, I realize that true friends are more precious than gold.

We are all so blessed. We live in the greatest country in the world where we can become whatever we want. And in this great country, we’re free to give thanks to a God who loves us no matter what.

Thank you again for letting me share my Points with you throughout the year. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!


Count your blessings; it’s an instant spiritual and emotional boost. Even during these uncertain times, we have so many blessings to be thankful for—right now at Thanksgiving and throughout the year. We hope you take time to count your many blessings. And we wish each and every one of you a healthy, happy and spirit-filled holiday.