Thanksgiving and Gratitude

Thanksgiving and the holidays can be lonely times for divorcing people. And often the loneliness manifests itself as anger against their spouse or ex spouse. No doubt, divorce is painful and destructive; but instead of focusing on loss, focus on opportunity.

• Be grateful for what you have and don’t focus on what you are lacking.
• Concentrate on your challenges as positives and the rewards of meeting and overcoming them.
• Remember that all emotional pain is temporary and there will be sunnier days ahead.
• Live the axiom, “success is the best revenge.”
• Don’t idealize life­­––it is inherently full of struggles and discomfort. Make the most of things as they are, not how you want them to be.
• Remember that as bad as you feel, many people have it much worse.
• Find comfort in faith.
• Remember Steven Still’s 1960’s anthem, “If you can’t be with the one you love, love the one your with.” Enjoy yourself despite missing your kids.
• Remember, problems always look smaller after a warm meal and a good night’s sleep.
• Laugh a little! Its going to be OK :)

Happy Thanksgiving from the Peskind Law Firm.

What would Atticus do?

I just got my tickets to see "To kill a Mockingbird" at the local IMAX theater. I have seen the movie 100 times but never at a theater, much less an IMAX. After I got my tickets I started reflecting on the draw of this film. What is it about this movie that is so compelling? Obviously, a great morality play is at the heart of the story. This is probably why I love westerns as well; there are clearly defined good guys and bad guys. 

But there is more here in the character of Atticus Finch. I suppose what keeps drawing to this film at this point in my life is a desire to emulate Mr. Finch. I know I am not alone and people worldwide have been drawn to this character. He stands for all that is right and true, something we would all like to be.  He does the correct thing, regardless of personal cost. Atticus deals with problems quietly and with dignity. He confirms that strength and kindness are not mutually exclusive. And while he is slaying dragons during the day, his ultimate joy comes from his children.  I guess remembering this from time to time helps keep me centered in my world of perpetual conflict. Thank you Mr. Finch!