As I write this, Thanksgiving is over a week away and, unlike the stores, I don't like to rush into a holiday before it's time.

But is it ever too early to be thankful?

Oh, I'm always thankful for the obvious things - the leftover Halloween candy in my desk drawer, a job I love, dinner in the oven when I get home late from work (that has never happened, but I am forever hopeful).

There is a saying on top of my file that says “Each day provides its own gifts.” For me, the days have provided an abundance of gifts. I imagine if you look at your life, you will be amazed at the gifts that you have overlooked as you struggle or rush or just move through your day. Please bear with me as I reflect on some of the things that bring me a feeling of thanksgiving. And if we run into one another as I am doing programs or tooling around the county, you can tell me what makes you thankful.

I just finished doing presentations on safety for the elementary children in Port Byron and spent a good deal of time in their classrooms, seeing their smiling faces and enthusiastic response as we talked about safety rules and adults who could help them if they had a problem. I felt the warmth and caring that I've seen in many schools in the county, from teachers and staff who really care for these kids and want them to have all the tools they need to be safe. I know that those who work with these children are thankful for each unique and precious one of them.

I too am thankful for each time that I am invited in to give a positive and helpful message to our children.

I was surprised and grateful when I met with a group of students from Cayuga Community College recently. These members of the IMPACT club had a plan, before we even met, to help SAVAR (Sexual Assault Victim's Advocate Resource) by organizing a fundraiser/ awareness event at the college. When I heard that the Judo Club and Criminal Justice Club at CCC were also involved in organizing the “Game/Awareness Night,” I was reminded how caring people can be and how willing to help others in need.

I plan to go to the event (which was held Friday evening at the college) to express my thanks to those who are volunteering with the games, the professors who are allowing pies to be tossed in the direction of their heads and those who have provided food, prizes and their time. For all these people, who come together to benefit a program which helps victims of crimes against the person, I am thankful.

Hopefully many of the students who have been involved in this event will continue with their commitment to the work that SAVAR does in the community. If they do, they will be inspired by the individuals who come to SAVAR and the dedication of volunteers and staff who work with these courageous people. They will find their lives enriched, and as I can attest, will be forever thankful for the experience and inspiration they will receive. Our communities are rich in caring and helpful people. I see the results of the work and commitment that these individuals offer, and I am thankful for the difference they make in our community.

And if you see my husband, could you refer to the beginning of this article and remind him how thankful I would be for that dinner in the oven after a long (but fulfilling) day at work?

Thank you.

Rosa Grube is an education coordinator for SAVAR of Cayuga Counseling Services.