Sunday Mornings with Rania: Let’s be Thankful

Rania Mankarious is executive director of Crime Stoppers of Houston. (Photo: lawellphoto.com)

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Everyone seems to be running this week. Running to tie up loose ends at work. Running to kids’ performances. Running to order a turkey or decorations. Running to get ready to head out of town. Either way, we are running. And while it can be exhausting and stressful, it’s all of our blessings in life that cause all of that running around, and I’m thankful for all of it.

But my heart thinks of those who can’t “run” this week. My heart thinks of those who may have no place to run to or no family to get ready to see. My heart thinks of those who have recently seen tragedy or for those who are working this week just like any other week – doctors who are still on call, pilots who are still flying planes, officers who are still putting their lives on the line, waitresses who still have to take the night shift and so much more.

This is a short but sweet note for all of us to take a moment to stop and breathe and be thankful for our lives and all that is in it. And while this time is exhausting and comes with frustrations, may I offer a small dose of advice that I will use personally:

• Instead of arguing about politics, be thankful for a country that gives us each an equal opportunity to share our voice.
• Instead of arguing about household chores your spouse may or may not have done, be thankful that you have a spouse or partner who is safe and near you during the holidays.
• Instead of arguing with your family about thousands of potential topics, be thankful to have another year with each of them around your table or with you around theirs.
• Instead of feeling frustrated when you travel, be thankful you can get away.
• Instead of worrying about whether you and your kids look just right, take a moment to turn the holiday into thinking of others.
• Be conscious and purposeful in your love for others.
• Be conscious and purposeful in your desire to live fully and safely.
• Be conscious and purposeful in the time you give to others.
• And smile.   

May you and your family enjoy every moment of this holiday week in peace, safety and happiness. I’m thankful for each of you.

For more information on Crime Stoppers of Houston, go to crime-stoppers.org and follow Crime Stoppers on Facebook. Have topics in mind that you’d like Rania to write about? Email her directly at [email protected]. Connect with Rania on Instagram and Twitter. Read past Sundays with Rania posts here.

Editor's Note: Views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of The Buzz Magazines.