A Thanksgiving Reflection
Author: Bill McDevitt, Founder at Top of the World Coaching
Thanksgiving, a day traditionally marked by feasting and family, offers a unique opportunity for reflection and gratitude. For me, it’s a day to unwind, to savor the simple pleasures of life, and to appreciate the blessings that surround me.
Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, but Thanksgiving is the 1 day of the year where I am the most relaxed. I’m usually a visitor at a family member’s house for dinner but the rest of the day I just chill out. Maybe I’ll take a leisurely ride on my bike, start and finish a small project, read a print newspaper (yes, really, ink on the hands and all), or nothing really at all.
Beyond the relaxation and the hobbies, Thanksgiving for me is also a day to be thankful. As a dad, granddad and a business owner, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of pausing to reflect on the blessings in my life.
As a dad, I’ve had the incredible privilege of watching my sons grow into amazing young men. My wife and their mom, may she rest in peace, would be so proud of the men they’ve become. It was a bittersweet feeling, when they were ready to spread their wings and fly, but also a profound sense of pride.
Together with their mother, we strived to instill in them the values of hard work, integrity, and kindness. We wanted to raise them to be good men, to be responsible, and to be compassionate. I’ll never forget the countless hours spent coaching their hockey teams, attending their games, and simply being there to support them.
Now, as they navigate the complexities of adulthood, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude. They’ve grown into thoughtful, caring, and successful individuals. It’s a legacy she would be, and I am very proud of. They both have a child of their own now, which makes me a granddad times two.
Being a granddad is a truly special experience. Watching my grandchildren grow, learn, and discover the world fills my heart with joy and a sense of purpose. It’s a reminder of the precious moments that truly matter. As I sit writing this, I hear the pitter-patter of little feet running back and forth and infectious laughter. With two grandchildren, one that is two years old and one that is five months old, I get to see the world around them through their eyes. It’s a beautiful and humbling experience to witness their innocence, curiosity, and pure joy. Each day with them is a gift, a chance to create lasting memories and to instill in them the values that will shape their future.
As a business owner, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless individuals and businesses reach their full potential. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and success, to see them overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. But it’s important to remember that behind every achievement, there’s a journey filled with challenges, setbacks, and lessons learned.
I’ve had my own share of ups and downs or peaks and valleys like I like to say sticking with my Top of the World brand. There have been times when I’ve felt overwhelmed, discouraged. Like standing at the bottom of a high mountain, the path to the top isn't a gradual incline. It's a steep, challenging climb, one that requires determination, grit, and unwavering focus. But through perseverance and a positive mindset, I’ve been able to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger. It’s during those times that I am reminded of the importance of my three pillars of leadership, empathy, flexibility, and self-awareness, and surrounding myself with supportive people.
By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and achieve their goals.
As Thanksgiving approaches each year, I find myself increasingly grateful for the many blessings in my life. From the joy of family to the satisfaction of work, there’s always something to be thankful for. May this Thanksgiving season bring you peace, joy, and a renewed sense of gratitude.
Hi, I’m Bill! I grow people so people can grow businesses. I’ve been working with small business owners and leaders for over 4 decades. My company, Top of the World Coaching, is here to help you reach your goals and summit your vision. Reach out today for a free complimentary Discovery Call and start your ascent to the top of your world.