Every night when my family gathers for dinner, we take a moment to share one thing we are grateful for. We’ve never been the type to pray before a meal in the traditional sense of “Bless us, Oh Lord,” so I implemented this practice a couple of years ago to create a ritual around mealtime, and model to our children the importance of gratitude. It’s become an anchor, holding us steady through the ebbs and flows of life. Even in the darkest of storms, there’s always something we can find to feel grateful for.

I’ve loved to witness Liam’s growth through this practice, and soon, as Lily begins to find her words, we will have the joy of witnessing hers as well. Responses typically revolve around a highlight of the day, an act of kindness by a family member or friend, or an exciting event that recently took place or is to come. Occasionally, I’ll share something that has not yet happened, with the hope of manifesting it into existence. (As I do!) And more recently, I’ve begun to share a second gratitude that stays consistent day-to-day: “thank you for this healthy, nourishing meal,” as if speaking it aloud affirms to my body that this food is healing and not harming, a reminder I believe it needs as I leave cancer in the dust.

Today, of course, is *the day* to share our thanks. And amongst my laundry list of gratitudes, I want to call out one: you. 

If you’re reading this, you’ve been a part of my journey in some capacity this year, even if only from afar, and for that I am so grateful. The love and support that I have felt from family, friends, and mere acquaintances has been profound and will forever impact the way I show up for others—it’s been a true life lesson.

This year has been the hardest one of my life. Being diagnosed with cancer on January 4th completely turned my world upside down. But having gotten through what I believe is the worst of it, I can now look back and find even a hint of gratitude for—you guessed it—cancer. Yes, I’m grateful for cancer. It cracked me open to discover the deeper essence of life and my role in this human-spiritual experience. It has helped me to get in touch with my own true essence, my Self and my Soul, it’s taught me how to surrender, and it has fast-tracked me onto a path of alignment, fully embodying what it means to live with purpose, intention, and inspiration—because I now realize that my life depends on it.

I look forward to continuing to connect with you and share my story. I’ve got BIG plans for 2025 (more on that soon!) and am so beyond grateful to have you in my corner through it all.

Here’s to a very happy, healthy, love- and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.