Sue Hodgson –
I’m feeling so grateful these days. At a recent dinner, we were discussing the topic of gratefulness and someone asked: “Should you celebrate the holidays even if you don’t feel grateful?” I stumbled over the question. At the time, I believed one should feel grateful in order to give thanks. To do anything else seemed somewhat dishonest or insincere. It’s best to be emotionally authentic, right?
But for many people, gratitude is difficult because life is difficult. Even beyond deprivation and depression, there are many ordinary circumstances in which gratitude doesn’t come easy. For me, it’s the daily moments of reflection and thankfulness for the people and events that have happened, and are presently in, my life. Sometimes people cross your path and you know right away they are meant to be there. They serve some purpose, teach you a lesson or help you figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who those people may be – your son, roommate, neighbour, long-lost friend or even a complete stranger. Without all these tests, life would be like a smooth paved, straight flat road to nowhere: safe and comfortable but dull and pointless.
Sometimes things happen to us: at the time they might seem horrible, painful and unfair but upon reflection, you realize that by overcoming these obstacles you find your potential, strength, willpower and heart. A life of kindness and gratitude is powerful and when applied to oneself and the community around you, the world is a better place and the results are extraordinary!
This is our last issue of 2024, and so it is only fitting that I pause to express gratitude for your readership and support. The entire Seaside family works hard to publish our magazine and on behalf of all of us, thank you.
2025 will look a little different for Seaside as we are working on a few surprises; so keep a sharp eye out for the January 2025 issue!
Best of the season to everyone.
Seaside Sue
Photo by Janis Jean. Clothing provided and styled by Moden Boutique.
