This Special Content section features articles from readers who have chosen to write on a theme. If you would like to submit a response for a future edition of the Special Content section, simply visit the Home Page and read the editor's request.

This month, readers tell us for what they are most thankful.

I'm thankful to be an American living abroad in a very international community, if only to represent my country at a time when everyone is talking about us. 

I'm the recycling, Waldorf, fair-trade, vegetarian gal in a bunch of women from Australia, Britain, Singapore, Thailand, Norway, Japan, Manipur, New Zealand, Italy, Holland, Belgium and France.  I love reminding them that I'm American, because I am so far removed from the stereotype they have of Americans. 

I had no idea where they were getting their ideas until I watched a clip from a foreign press interviewing Americans about the election.  Oh my!  I'm out here waving the flag, being a grand ambassador.  The foreign gals are watching, and sadly they're not holding their breath.  However, my absentee ballot is filled out and ready for the postman. Yes, I'm thankful I can show people what we're really like and that no matter what, people aren't their governments. 

Gina Hope

image courtesy Gina Hope

This year, having recently celebrated a milestone birthday, as I begin the “Second Act” of my life, I am most grateful for the life lessons I have learned along the way.  I am sure some of you are wondering, “is she nuts?” And the answer is, some days!  However, I feel that through some of the darkest, loneliest times, when it was just me and my prayers to get me through, I have always emerged a stronger, more compassionate, more humble, grateful, tolerant, patient, spiritual and centered human being. 

These revelations were not always immediate, trust me.  But in the long run, I feel that learning to deal with the hurdles and roadblocks that life has thrown my way has made me a better mother, sister, daughter, girlfriend, friend, community member and citizen of the world, and for that I am extremely grateful.

Meg Coldwells

image courtesy Meg Coldwells

There are many things I am thankful for, but I never dreamed I could be thankful for Down syndrome. Without Down syndrome, I would never have known my daughter and the unconditional love and acceptance she gives others. I would have never seen how she can help people in ways a typical child cannot. I have seen her help my father through many difficult medical issues. Of all his grandchildren, she is the one who bypasses Nana to give Grandpa a hug first. She senses something that we often miss. For these reasons, and so many more, I will always be thankful for Down syndrome.

Debbie Yost

I am thankful for every word that comes out of my child's mouth, good or bad, for I didn't know if the time would ever come when I would hear his voice speaking to me.  I am thankful for every time he runs to greet me and for every time he meets my eyes with his, for I didn't know if he would ever lift his head when I entered the room or turn my way when I called his name.  I am thankful for life, and love, and healing.

Trish

TODAY I will remember to give thanks for my blessings.

HAPPINESS can be spread with a smile. 

AGING brings new appreciation for youth.

NEW life hides inside each bulb I plant.

KINDNESS is always an acceptable gift.

SINGING can lift a sinking heart.

GOOD deeds can be done in secret.

INVITE others to share in your bounty.

VISUAL reminders of the season.

INCREDIBLE discussions can happen at the dinner table.

NOW is the perfect time to love one another.

GIVING is a joy I want to pass on to my children.

Kcinnova

image courtesy Kcinnova