Hey there Reader,
Thanksgiving Reflections
As Thanksgiving arrives, I find myself reflecting on how much changes, especially as we age.
Life has a way of moving faster than we realize — friends moving away, loved ones facing serious health challenges, and the quiet shifts in our own bodies that remind us of our mortality.
I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately.
Just this month, I celebrated an 85th birthday with a dear friend who is healthy and vibrant — a joyful reminder of life’s beauty.
And yet, not long after, I heard news of another friend who suffered a stroke. In an instant, life can change.
Moments we think are ordinary suddenly seem very fragile and urgent.
It’s scary, isn’t it?
To witness the shifting health of those we love, to feel the changes in our own bodies, to face the reality that some things are simply beyond our control.
And yet, even in this mix of fear, grief, and uncertainty, there is a way to anchor ourselves — to allow grace, compassion, and tenderness toward ourselves.
This Thanksgiving, I want to hold space for all of it:
the losses, the challenges, the marks life leaves on us — and also the moments of joy, connection, and beauty.
Because even in times of change, there are gifts waiting for us to notice: a warm meal, the laughter of a friend, the golden light of a fall afternoon, the crisp rush of wind on your face, or the quiet wonder of the moon rising in the sky.
One of the things I’ve been reflecting on as I think about this season is the idea that we can develop a deeper trust in ourselves — what I call Radical Trust.
It’s not about controlling life or avoiding the heaviness; it’s about leaning into yourself, acknowledging the uncertainty, and finding ways to move through fear, grief, and change with grace.
I’ll be exploring this more in future newsletters, sharing ways we can cultivate this trust in ourselves and in life, but even now, it’s a gentle reminder: the ability to trust yourself is one of the most important tools you can carry into a season like Thanksgiving.
Here’s what I’ve been holding as I navigate this season:
- Give yourself grace. Some days are heavy, and it’s okay to feel that weight. Compassion toward yourself is essential.
- Seek connection. Call or invite someone who may be alone this weekend. Share a meal, a conversation, or simply your presence.
- Celebrate small joys. Bake, walk, watch the sun or the moon, enjoy the season’s flavors. Notice what brings you alive in the ordinary.
- Be present. Whether you’re with family, friends, or yourself, lean into the flow of the day and the richness of the moment.
Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection or forcing gratitude when it doesn’t feel natural.
It’s about holding both the heaviness and the lightness, allowing each to have space.
It is in the space that you can experience life more fully, more tenderly, and with a joy that carries us forward into the rest of the year.
So this year, eat the extra pie. Take the long walk. Listen to the wind. Watch the sky. Laugh. Cry. Celebrate life’s beautiful, fleeting moments.
And if you can, invite someone to share the day with you — because connection, more than anything, reminds us that we’re not alone.
Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with quiet, presence, and moments that remind you just how precious life is.
With love and gratitude,
Marianne
What's Coming and what is available:
- October 22nd at 6:30 pm I will be delivering a workshop at our local library- the Hope Library titled Building an Exceptional Life- Even in Uncertain Times.
This is inspired by the teachings of Louise Hay & Cheryl Richardson, but also builds upon my coaching framework and philosophy. You will also learn about Purple Light Nights - a Domestic Violence Initiative I have been involved with for decades. This workshop is free and open to the public if you are interested in attending
- Next newsletter I will share more with you on the Radical Trust Coaching Framework and how it can help you in your life.
- Together, we can uncover what’s possible for you and create a path that feels true, steady, and yours.90 minutes private session on "Life By Design" - a laser coaching session to hone in on your top priorities and create clarity and a blueprint for success.
- Contact for a free connection call to see if this is the right next step for you.
Staying Connected
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