During this triple holiday season, most people will visit with family and friends first, catching up on thankfulness. Everyone will question each other about what they are thankful for and what makes them happy during this season. However, ask me, and I will share my gratitude for my blog readers while they also give me bursts of quick complimentary comments. Whether we are talking Avid readers, those who only read a few entries, or anything in between, I thank you.

Please remember that we are doing our best while living on this Big Blue Marble together in this season of love, joy, and gratefulness. There are plenty of poisonous people lurking in the shadows and out in the open today, so keep yourself guarded. The only thing that can protect us from hatred and bitterness is love and understanding, so spread kindness and compassion. A simple smile can also send an unmistakable warm message encouraging others to reciprocate your kind gesture.

While discussing politics, a popular topic, I hear, “If you are not with us, then you are against us,” and like Wolverine, the claws come out. There is enough bitter hatred and aggression towards others for being different or standing on the other side of an imaginary line. If someone stops you and shares this acrimonious political speech, change the subject or find a reason to walk away. I have not talked about politics in 18 months, which makes me happier, so believe me when I say your brain and body will thank you.

So, to all my readers, whether you are a friend, frenemy, or foe, thank you for taking the time to peruse my papers. I also have a deep gratitude and cavernous appreciation for those who continually encourage me to write a book. The book-writing idea is in my head, nebulous at best, waiting for clarification from my brain box. I hope everyone has a great holiday season, whether you are celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Festivus for the rest of us.

Savor every moment like it’s the last Twinkie at Weight Watchers camp.