Hanna Atkinson SSIGM Blog #7: Thankful Thanksgiving

Hanna Joy Atkinson — Health Messenger, Athlete leader, Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger

Hello to November. Colorado is cold in November, so just imagine you get to sit back and stay warm next to the fireplace while enjoying a read through a truly thoughtful blog!

Here is a list of things I have been really thankful for — so let’s begin!

1. I am thankful for my Special Olympics family.

Here I am with my Special Olympics Colorado SouthSiders Fly N Riders!

2. I am thankful for being a Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger.

Here I am with my fellow SSIGMs at Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019!

3. I am thankful for being a national Health Messenger for Special Olympics.

Here I am spreading the word about #InclusiveHealth in Abu Dhabi!

4. I am thankful for my family and friends in the world.

Here I am with my loving family!

To my brother Jeff, you are always in my heart.

Here I am with my nephew, Finn!

5. I am thankful for my Olive Garden family.

Here I am with my Olive Garden co-workers!

6. I am thankful for my church family.

7. I am really thankful that I am an important part of this world!

Here I am making an impact while spreading joy!

8. I am thankful for kindness (thankfulness is one aspect of kindness).

9. I am completely grateful for animals, gardens, forests, mountains, hikes, poetry, art work, walking the beaches, taking road trips, dancing, Netflix, traveling the world, cooking/baking healthy and I am really grateful for making a lasting enriching life and future, while spreading God’s fulfilling love for one another.

Here I am at the summit of Gray’s Peak in Colorado while hiking with friends!

10. I am thankful for the Inclusion Revolution. I am really honored to #ChooseToInclude!

It is the time of year to be with family and friends, so let’s move forward to make a better place for all people no matter our differences. Nobody should be left behind, our values and our voices need to be out in the world. Why be unkind to one another when all of us can belong in the world without hurting each other! Support and encourage all humanity, and show that we can appreciate our differences. All of us being together and sharing what we are thankful for is the most essential.

Please take action to take the pledge of the Inclusion Revolution. Also please donate to Special Olympics and make friends with athlete leaders!

Who is with me?! Share what you’re thankful for with others!