With Thanksgiving here, it’s time to get over what we’ve already come through in 2020 and start looking forward.

It won’t end the coronavirus, establish peace and harmony in government, or correct any of the injustices in the world.

But it might help you prepare for what’s ahead- whatever that may be.

We are in the final phase of 2020. And I’m ready for a new calendar.

Not that a new calendar would bring the equivalent of a global reset. If it were that simple, I’d already be working off the 2035 calendar.

2020 could have used several resets. And we’re not to December 31 yet.

But we’re all still bumping along. That’s what we need to remember.

Having seen how the work-from-home orders impacted others, I’m very thankful for the fact I’ve been working from home for more than two decades. My wife had to make big adjustments in how she works. But we’re both still working from home - and speaking - after more than six months of 24/7 togetherness.

And in these very uncertain times, we’re thankful to have jobs. Not everyone is so fortunate.

But I harbor no illusions whatsoever that this will be a normal Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving will be different for everyone.

The pandemic tossed a huge wrench into everyone’s lives, and holidays are no exceptions.

And challenges can be magnified during the holidays. Especially if you’re dealing with a loss or struggling with uncertainty.

Doesn’t matter what the uncertainty is, they all bring that hollow feeling that leads to sleepless nights, uncertain days, and a loss of hope.

Telling you I’ve been there- and gotten through it- may not offer much comfort. Sometimes, empathy isn’t enough. But it’s still true.

Other than prayer, it’s the best I have to offer. If you’re in an uncertain place this Thanksgiving, I’m pulling for you.

Thanksgiving 2020 won’t fill our home with family. Our Thanksgiving meal as most meals the past few months- will be eaten as a couple. It won’t keep us from offering a prayer of Thanksgiving, but it will emphasize - again - how things this Thanksgiving are different.

As we take a few days off for this holiday, I hope that each of us will take some of that time to reflect. Try not to focus on what you’re lacking, rather try to appreciate what you have.

If you do, Thanksgiving might be the point where things begin to turn for the better. That’s my prayer for all of us.

Happy Thanksgiving.

—Jim Shepherd