The day was Monday, November 2nd.  I sat in a chair and thought about what would come next for me.

I thought back to the previous Monday when I noticed flu-like symptoms.  When those symptoms persisted for several days, my primary care physician recommended a COVID test the following Thursday.  I received the results the same day.  I was positive for the novel coronavirus.

As the flu-like symptoms began to ebb, something else happened.  All the energy in my body was drained.  I felt like doing nothing.  I just ate, slept and drank plenty of fluids (including a heavy intake of water).

I had read a great deal about COVID.  I knew I was (and am) in a high-risk group, due to my age and the chronic health conditions that go with aging.  Although I was better than most, I knew my condition could head south at any time.

My physician was wonderful throughout the ordeal.  She reminded me that most COVID patients have mild symptoms and recover, including people in my condition and age group.

So I journeyed on with the best attitude one could muster under the circumstances.  Slowly, but surely, my condition improved to the point where I now feel fully recovered.  A lot is unknown about the long-term implications of a bout with COVID, but as of now I am good.

Being thankful entails a long list for me.  I am so thankful my wife never tested positive and has had no symptoms, even after being with me in our home throughout all this.  We followed CDC guidelines, using separate bedrooms and bathrooms and that worked for us.

I had been around my daughter and son-in-law just days before the symptoms, but both tested negative and have had no symptoms.

When you are not sure how your coronavirus infection will end, a lot goes through one’s mind.  I did a lot of thinking while on that chair with no energy to do anything.

That experience and contemplation brings a new awareness.  There is a better understanding of what is important and not important in life.  It allows you to value the most important parts of everyday living.

That experience let me know just how important my family, friends and even acquaintances are in life.  I did not disclose my illness until I was well enough, and had the energy, to write.

The response was heartening.  The messages I received from so many people in and around the Fishers community meant so much to me.

That’s why every day for me is Thanksgiving Day.  I wake up and know God has given me another day on this earth to do my best and be a positive influence on my world and the community in which I live.

Of all the messages I received after disclosing my positive test, this one from a lady that regularly reads my blog and listens to my podcasts stood out for me.  She wanted to let me know that even though we have never met, she feels that she knows me from my writing and podcasts.  That is a high compliment for anyone doing communications.  I really do not always know how many people are absorbing all my content.

So, on this Thanksgiving Day, I celebrate in a special way pursuant to American traditions dating back to the days of the pilgrims.  I am the oldest of 6 children.  Normally, my sister and brother-in-law host a large family gathering Thanksgiving Day.

That is not happening this year.  I will be enjoying Thanksgiving Day with a much smaller group.

I hope you all find a wonderful and safe way to make Thanksgiving Day special in this not-so-special year of 2020.  I am thankful for everyone in my circle of relatives and friends, including those reading this blog.

Although 2020 has not been a special year for most of us, there has been much joy for my family.  My first grandchild was born in August.  I look forward to seeing him, his parents and seeing that special smile only he has.

That’s why every day is Thanksgiving Day for me.  So, please, be kind and be safe.