It is Thanksgiving week. And to reflect on some of the things I’m thankful for, here is a little story: almost two months ago I had the pleasure of eating at an authentic Southern establishment – the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. When I proclaimed to the group I was with that I had never heard of this restaurant-store chain before, one of the ladies said to me, “Oh, sweet honey child, this is the place.” Okaaaaaaaay. I smiled and nodded.

The country store section had an assortment of just about everything from rocking chairs to candy to pots and pans to Christmas decorations (which were being sold in September). The restaurant’s menu was totally unrecognizable to me (I still don’t know what grits are. Or butter baked chicken? And who has gravy with biscuits for breakfast? I thought gravy was eaten only with mashed potatoes for dinner). Nevertheless, the food was good and the atmosphere was even better.

When I was leaving the store I noticed a sign posted by the establishment that they were willing to serve everyone and anyone – no matter of their race – and immediately my mind flashed to Civil War movies and segregation stories. It really made me be thankful for the different experiences I am able to have living here, and the histories, cultures, and various people I have come across. And it made me realize that step by step, little by little, the goal of unity of mankind is on its way to being accomplished. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!