I hope everyone out there is having a great day, either with the family they grew up with or the family they have found since then. Even if you’re alone physically, know you’re not truly alone. There are people out there that care about you and people that, right now, miss you. If you can’t think of someone that misses you, then I’ll be that person. I invite you to my virtual Thanksgiving (or Friendsgiving) and when we go around and say what we’re thankful for, I’ll say I’m thankful for you.
I have a friend who’s going through a rough time right now and considering that the holidays tend to have the highest suicide rate, I’m worried that they won’t be here much longer. I’ve already said my piece to them and done what I can from afar, but if you’re in a similar place, know that you would be missed and that, though it may not seem like it right now, things will get better. That’s the way the wheel works.
In the current political climate, it’s become very clear that we can’t trust the government to take care of each other, so we have to do it ourselves. If you have the funds free and feel like giving, there are a number of ways to support those around you. Today especially, consider donating in support of the Native people of the Standing Rock reservation who are currently fighting to keep their water supply safe. If you want to help those local to you, remember that it’s getting cold and the homeless need your help to keep them safe this winter and also that while you’re enjoying a large family meal, there are those who are going hungry and rely on food banks and city missions to stay fed.
You don’t have to give a lot. I’m low on funds until my next paycheck, but I could spare a few bucks to help others. It might seem like $1 or $5 or $25 isn’t enough, but every little bit helps.
If you can’t spare any money, then just text/call/email/PM people you care about and let them know that you’re thinking of them. You never know who might need an extra pick-me-up today.