I am Grateful for---

• Opportunities of philanthropy. Our foundation has formed alliances with other nonprofits and helped fund their sustainable programs that fight hunger, hate, racism, bigotry, gender-based hate - LGBQT+, and domestic violence.
• Our Board of Directors brings diverse ancestries and cultures, and yet we rejoice in shared values.
• The world leaders have outlined protocols to mitigate the ravages of climate change and plan to address climate action (recognition and accountability) at the upcoming COP28 UN Climate Summit in Dubai, November 30-December 12.
• We can be with our families and hug - and argue.
• We live in a Democracy, though somewhat fractured now; we are able to form social service agencies, nonprofits and grassroots organizations to improve our communities. We are able to make our voices heard and protest and vote.
• I look at the sun-dappled leaves on the trees and see jewels of splendid color and feel joy.  I am so grateful for my eyesight.
• And I am grateful for the mundane things, like everything pumpkin: muffins, bread, Trader Joe’s pumpkin tortilla chips, hand soap, candles, and lattes. Oh joy!