Author: Connie Perez

For human decency. I love to be on the receiving end of politeness, thoughtfulness, compassion, good will, tolerance, and forgiveness, don’t you? Let’s bring decency back into fashion, pretty please! We champion so many causes. Save the trees! Save the whales! Save the ice caps! Sure, I’m all for the environment, don’t get me wrong….

For those who can agree to disagree. What?! Nowadays?! Yes, especially these days. It’s easy peasy to hold a conversation with someone who agrees with you [cue the love and fireworks]. But quite tricky to do so with someone who doesn’t. I am grateful for those who can respect another’s opinion without giving up their…

For the blessing of being able to bring to fruition a miracle, that of bringing life into the world — to protect it, to respect it. Nothing else has ever made me feel more aware of God. I cannot for one instance imagine life without Danny and Lauren. Their lives were a choice. Whatever choice…

For good medical reports! Phew! That’s all I’m going to say ’bout that. We know not all the money, possessions, success, etc., is worth a hoot without health. And even though we know, we spend the least amount of time on what matters most…almost as if we were immortal and had forever. Thanks for all…

For my village. “It takes a village,” as you know. As I’ve mentioned before, the last 10 months or so have been overwhelming, to say the least. With Mom’s health and mind deteriorating, selling her home, relocating her to an interim place, and subsequently moving her to an apartment, seemed like an unsurmountable task. Crazy…

For oxygen. Mine consists of Ray, Lauren, and Danny. I breathe in and feel their support; I breathe out and feel their love. Oh, what a relief it is. What’s your oxygen? And what are you thankful for today? “Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family….

For hugs, kisses, conversations, and time together. For me, Jesus is the reason for the season. I recognize and celebrate all the blessings He bestows on me — each hug and kiss, each conversation, each second we spend with loved ones – all of that is so much brighter and warmer than anything else we…

That I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. So thankful that my faith is strong enough to believe this. Otherwise, I’d be in a looney bin right now. Enough said. Oh yeah, and thankful also for greeting cards. The ones with handwriting inside that come in an envelope with a stamp on it….

For our warriors and the peace they serve to protect and defend. As I hold in my hands this poignant edition of The Miami Herald published 75 years ago today (another one of Mom’s archived treasures), I cringe at the reminder of the countless souls lost to war, past and present, and of the brave…