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Every year on Thanksgiving, my family has a time-honored tradition. Before we start eating, and after we say a prayer, we go around the table and everyone has to say one thing they’re thankful for. It can be anything… from family to a new job to the Care Bear they received earlier that day (that would be the seven year old).

Also, since becoming “Messianic,” we’ve tended to eat our big meal on Friday, sort of as a combination Shabbat/Thanksgiving feast. So here I am, dinner in a few hours, and I’m trying to think of the one thing I’m thankful for.

It’s not that I have nothing to be thankful for. I’ve got my family, my friends, my job, a roof over my head, an internet connection, food, and water (yes, in order of priorities!). Nobody close to me has died lately, there’s been no major disasters, and I’m still in one piece. But I feel like that’s what I say every year. My family. My friends.

If I was to be honest, I really would probably say my friends this year. There’s been a few of you that have really been helping me keep my head above water this past year. Listening and letting me vent. Understanding my situation. Coming to me with your problems (which actually really blesses me). Letting me just kick back and have a good time without the fear of being judged. There’s about three of you I know I wouldn’t be able to live without, and I’m so thankful for you.

Also, I’d say my family. I know I haven’t been the greatest daughter. I know I’ve been an outright pain. I know you wish I would have turned out differently. But you know what? I know you’re always going to be there to support me, no matter what.

See? I’d say family and friends. Cliché, but true.