There’s a popular saying, “Gratitude turns what we have into enough,” that feels especially meaningful this Thanksgiving. 2020 has been a long, hard year for millions of Americans who have lost so much due to the COVID-19 pandemic: loved ones, physical and mental health, jobs, milestones, and connections.
In the wake of these losses, it may be difficult to feel thankful this holiday season. But giving thanks isn’t an empty gesture. It’s a deliberate activity that can actually improve our moods and relationships. Researchers have found that when we spend time thinking about the things we feel thankful for—rather than cataloging our grievances—we can become not only emotionally healthier, but physically healthier. In other words, we are happier when we are grateful.
Gratitude is powerful stuff.
So, in this atypical holiday season, Cell Phones For Soldiers encourages you to find whatever ways you can to express thanks, whether that’s in a prayer, a mental note, a card, a call, or by giving back. In that spirit, we’ll share some of the many things that make us say “thank you” this Thanksgiving:
We’re thankful for the brave men and women serving our country at home and abroad. Their sacrifices never go unnoticed.
We’re thankful to our veterans, who protected our freedoms.
We’re thankful for the nurses, doctors, first responders, technicians, front-line workers, and elder caregivers who have not let their guard down once during this pandemic. We’re thankful for the researchers who have developed the vaccines that will make 2021 a safer and healthier year.
We’re thankful for the teachers who have done everything in their power to reach kids this year.
We’re thankful to our family and friends. Even though the pandemic has limited in-person gathering, our love and support for one another remains as strong as ever.
We’re thankful for the supporters who have kept Cell Phones For Soldiers going for 16 years. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us in our mission. Last month, a woman reached out to ask how to donate her late husband’s phone—he was a Marine who had recently passed away. Every donation has a story, and we honor them all.
We’re thankful.
Happy Thanksgiving.
