What Are You Thankful For in 2020?

Hello

Telegram News readers,

As we all know, this year, has taken us by surprise. From the coronavirus pandemic to police brutality, violence and the killing of unarmed Black people and even the elections. This year, will certainly be forever etched in our memories and written in the history books. Even with all that has transpired, in the season of Thanksgiving, we all have something to be Thankful for!

There’s a verse in the bible that can be found in I Thessalonians 5:16-18, that says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” For me, this year has been filled with an abundance of blessings. I am very grateful for my life and my village that continues to encourage and support me in my endeavors.

What am I Thankful for? My daughter, Crystal R. Kirkman, who is my world; my mother, Seconies Kirkman and my sister, Jazmin Kirkman for always being in my corner and helping me out when needed with my daughter. I am also thankful for my friend’s circle, especially my best-friends, Danielle Reese and L. Deon Williams, who keeps me encouraged, prays on my behalf and constantly reminds me that we must continue to live our lives, striving to make a difference in this world. To my extended family, The Kirkman-Hill family, I am so thankful to God for my aunts, uncles and cousins for their love and support. Then there’s my mentors, Dr. NJ Akbar, Vickie Thomas and Vincent McCraw, I am so thankful that God strategically placed them in my life to help guide me through my educational and career journey. For me, I cannot forget my spiritual growth that has transformed over the last year and for that, I am thankful for my church family, my pastor and first lady, Rev. LT Willis, Lady Kim Willis, the music ministry and the New Jerusalem MBC in Inkster, MI.

Then last but certainly not least, I am thankful for Mrs. Gina Steward and the Telegrams News, for allowing me to contribute to this amazing newspaper each month, by telling inspiring stories to you, our readers.

Happy Thanksgiving and Have a Blessed Holiday Season,

Clifton R. Kirkman II