I only realized a couple of days ago that this weekend was Canadian Thanksgiving. When we used to live in Bermuda, there was a big Canadian community and so Thanksgiving (both the Canadian and American one) were acknowledged and even celebrated. On a good year we were lucky enough to have 3 turkey dinners between October and December 25th. In Nicaragua (at least in this community) I think I’m the only person who has mentioned the holiday. Unfortunately we weren’t really prepared so there was no turkey (except for the loud ones that live next door) and no big family style dinner, just a bowl of homemade lentil soup. We acknowledged the holiday on social media, and wished our friends and family a Happy Thanksgiving, but that is the extent of it this year. Maybe next year we will be a little more prepared and do something special.
Thanksgiving is about gratitude and that we definitely have. Every day we appreciate this opportunity; to be able to live near the ocean, to have the sun kiss our skin every day and to live a simpler life without the stresses of the rat race. So much gratitude.
We’ve realized that the more we are grateful of this experience, the better we can handle the challenges. It’s not always easy, and it’s not always comfortable. I still struggle to sleep deeply at night because I feel like I have to keep my guard up for creatures that may find their way into my bed. It can get hot, really hot… and there is no air conditioning in our house. The kitchen isn’t quite as functional as what we are used to back home, and truthfully, I miss a good chai latte! I sound like I’m whining and I feel silly even bringing any of that up because we are truly thankful to be here and to try something new. To live differently, to meet new people, make connections, challenge ourselves, breath fresh air every day, and inspire others.
There is a quote by Denis Waitley that says:
“Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.”
For the first time, we have really lived and experienced the truth in this saying. The more gratitude and love you have, the more happiness you will feel in any situation. HAPPY THANKSGIVING
