Thankfulness
13 years ago on Thanksgiving, I lost someone near and dear to my heart. As I grew up, I told myself I want my boys to have everything they need to make them great men. Not materialistic, but in their hearts. I hoped to be half the parent my mom was. Today unfortunately, our family suffered a loss and my boys have to live through that feeling that I did so many years ago. I am still thankful, that my mother, as independent as I am, still can calm me, whether it be a single word or look. I am grateful for all the sacrifice she made as a single mom. I hear my middle son read, and though he struggles, I watch him try and glad he makes that effort. I watch my oldest, knowing most of this is easy as pie, and proud when he says he likes his tough teacher because she challenges him. I watch my rainbow, with the wide curious eyes of youth, trying absorb all the information the world can afford him. I watch my wife, with her eyes filled with sadness and regret, but pride and happiness a