As I write my column, I am preparing to leave my home in Upstate New York and travel to South Carolina to join my family for our annual Thanksgiving Day tradition: lots of good food, watching football all day and evening, and having a ton of fun.

The one person missing is my late wife, who passed away three and ½ years ago. She may not be physically present, but her legacy continues as the one who taught us to love this holiday. The recipes she shared continue, slightly lacking her special touch but still tasting good. Having cooked and prepared for too many hours, she often slept through the football games and deserved the rest. She would usually wake up in time for dessert and join in the joking, teasing, and cajoling that makes our family like yours unique.

Reflecting on those fond memories from previous Thanksgiving dinners, I can think of one word that captures the emotion we always shared and continue to share: Thankfulness. My family and I thank the one person who taught us how to celebrate a great family tradition. We are all different and have different points of view on various subjects. Still, we did not gather to express our disdain for politics, the economy, or other topics relevant to today. We came together to share a meal, laugh and smile, enjoy each other’s company, poke fun at each other in a light but endearing way, and to show each other how much we truly love each other. As we age, we appreciate the time and enjoy watching the grandchildren grow up, listening to their dreams and aspirations, and providing them some advice if they ask for it.

I share stories about my late wife so that my children and grandchildren will share those same stories with their children and grandchildren in the future. It’s a responsibility we must keep so the tradition moves forward along with her legacy. I sometimes stroll in the neighborhood where my son lives so I can speak my thoughts with my late wife. I want a private moment with my thoughts to say a heartfelt thanks to the woman who chose and loved me.

So often, we say thank you as a perfunctory response: thanks for holding the door for me as I enter the bank, picking up something I dropped, or for letting me ahead of you in the line. Sincere thanks; however, it means taking the time to say I am so grateful for you. I am glad you entered my life and made me feel so special. I am forever thankful for everything you gave me. Yes, I miss you every day, and the holidays are difficult at times, but you are so instilled in my life that I know and feel your joy and love. I owe you a debt I can never repay. All I can do is pay it forward by giving sincere thanks and being grateful to others. It is what you would want me to do.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my brothers