Social conflict, global tension and lingering uncertainty make it challenging to acknowledge what remains good, stable and hopeful in our lives.

Yet during turbulent times, gratitude becomes an anchor. So I’m taking time today to pay extra attention to my loving bride, a daughter who likes me, friends I genuinely enjoy and a career I’m having fun with. I have a warm home, nice clothes, food on the table and most importantly, my health.

If you’re struggling to look past the noise, conflict and division of 2025, you may be overlooking things in your private life and the world we share.

First there’s community. Our families, close friendships and jobs sustain us, even as we seek volunteer opportunities to give back to others. True, ideological narratives are clashing, yet people continue showing up for each other to share meals, give rides, offer support and exchange laughter.

These everyday connections are important, though often uncelebrated. Gratitude for the people who hold us up — sometimes without being asked — is appreciating the best part of humanity.

Then there’s resilience, which gets demonstrated more clearly during times of instability. Hard years test us but also reveal our capacity to adapt, endure and grow. Even as global societies grapple with conflict, countless acts of courage and cooperation happen quietly every day. Despite everything, we are all still learning and striving.

Then there’s persistent progress. Partisan upheaval suggests fragile hope is fading and nothing good’s happening. Yet beneath the headlines people continue working toward solutions, justice and understanding. Scientific discovery continues, medicine advances, and scholars, leaders and advocates push for reform. Communities organize, artists create and young people raise their voices.

And headlines notwithstanding, we still have the freedom to reflect, speak and participate. Even in times of division, the ability to express ourselves, to engage, to disagree and to make choices about our leadership is a gift. Political turmoil, for all its frustration, reminds us that democracy is alive — noisy, imperfect, and deeply valuable.

Finally, be thankful for comfort from a familiar routine and a beautiful sunset. These constants remind us that peace can be found in simple daily rhythms.

So find gratitude by looking deeper within yourself. Because even in turbulent times there is much worth appreciating, protecting and celebrating.

With that said, I wish you a happy Thanksgiving weekend.

No commercial pitch. Just wishes for a better 2026.