My First Thanksgiving

My first Thanksgiving took place at the home of my ESL teacher, Bill. Alongside his wife, they graciously extended invitations to several ESL students who, like me, had minimal English skills and no family in the United States. We devoured his wife’s exceptional cooking, laughed over silly things, and sampled from his wine collection. Although many years have passed, the memory of sitting at Bill’s dining room table remains vivid, with his smiling eyes putting me at ease and making me feel welcome.

There was a young girl from Japan who mostly nodded, a Lebanese guy who kept stuffing his face and saying, “Yes, this is very good,” and me, who gathered courage from wine to keep talking, though I probably made very little sense. Unfortunately, aside from Bill, I forgot everybody’s name. I recall Bill teaching us about Thanksgiving as an opportunity to pause from life, savor an elaborate meal with those you love, and practice gratitude. He pointed at each of us and dubbed us “bonus.” Bill expressed his fortune in celebrating with us, the “bonus guests.” Bill bore a resemblance to my hero, Bill Gates, which struck me. I remember thinking to myself, “I love Bill, and I love America.

Every Thanksgiving, I reflect on Bill with profound gratitude for his warm welcome to a group of foreign students at his house, even if it may have involved some underage drinking, likely against college policy. Memories like these underscore the abundance of things I have to be thankful for. Whether it’s my sheer luck or starting with very little, practicing gratitude has never proven to be a disadvantage. It consistently grounds me, fosters connections, and provides a comforting sense of fulfillment. It plays a vital role in my physical and mental well-being. Recognizing and appreciating what is often hidden or taken for granted is both soothing and satisfying. My heart swells with gratitude because of people like Bill, the chance to cross paths with them, and countless other serendipities that aligned perfectly for me to cherish that beautiful Thanksgiving memory in his house. It’s about the little things, the big things, and everything else in between.

A few years back, I started a tradition in Bill’s memory. I wake up early on Thanksgiving morning to go for a 30-minute walk, leaving gadgets behind, letting go of duties that come with life, and freeing up my mind. Walking slowly, sipping on coffee, and thinking of all the little things, big things, and everything else in between that I’m grateful for.

Right now, though, I’m thankful because our paths crossed and countless other serendipities aligned perfectly for me to write to you. You add purpose and meaning to my words because you read them.

Thank you,

– Burak Sarac, Team Lead

Guard Your Gmail: 3 Steps to Secure Your Account from Hackers

As technology advances, so do the risks associated with it. Gmail, being one of the most widely used email services globally, has unfortunately become a prime target for hackers. This article, not only highlights the risks associated with the evolving nature of cyber threats but also offers a practical guide with three essential steps to fortify and safeguard your Gmail account and ensure the safety of your digital communication.

Black Friday Deals and Tips

As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the exciting Black Friday deals that mark the beginning of festive shopping. This article outlines valuable insights into the Top 10 Black Friday Shopping Tips for 2023. These tips cover various aspects, from identifying the best deals to maximizing savings. As Black Friday is renowned for its discounted prices and special promotions, understanding these expert tips becomes crucial in ensuring a successful and budget-friendly shopping experience.

Apple’s Major Shift in iPhone Messaging Next Year

Apple is set to adopt a new messaging standard, marking a big shift in how iPhone users communicate. This article dives into the details of this significant shift, outlining how Apple’s move is poised to revolutionize the way we exchange messages through our devices. The adoption of this new messaging standard holds the promise of transformative features and improvements and a more dynamic messaging experience.

National French Toast Day!

National French Toast Day is just around the corner on Tuesday, November 28, 2023! And to make this festivities even more delicious, we’ve uncovered an incredible French Toast recipe. This easy-to-follow French Toast recipe is not just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to transform your breakfast into a masterpiece. Whether you’re a kitchen rookie or a seasoned chef, the step-by-step guidance and insider tips provided in the article make crafting this breakfast classic a breeze.

We need your help! ❤

We start every day with the aim to spoil you with an exceptional IT support because we truly care. If we’ve exceeded your expectations, would you consider sharing your experience with others through a sweet Google review? Your kind words will not only brighten our day but also help potential small businesses discover the reliable IT support they deserve. Thank you for being a part of the CTS Care family, we appreciate your continued trust in us.

Leave a Google Review