Last year I worked on Thanksgiving and this year is no different, but I don’t mind, someone has to do it, so it might as well be me.

Last year I volunteered to work all the holidays so that everyone else could have time off with their families because last year was the first year that I was without my parents. It was a depressing time, so I vowed to keep myself busy.

Because of my experience, it’s at this time of the year that I think of all the people who are suffering in silence. I think of those who don’t have a family to celebrate with or families who don’t have the money to prepare the traditional Thanksgiving meal. I also think of those who are going through divorces or those who have just lost loved ones. When you are in a situation like that, it’s hard to put on a smile and go along with all of the holiday cheer that seems to bombard us from everywhere.

This Thanksgiving, if you know someone who is suffering or who just needs some time and attention from someone who cares, reach out to them and let them know you are there for them.

I know one thing that helped me heal was to think of everything and everyone that I am thankful for. I am happy to report that my depression over losing my parents has lifted this year. I like to think of my parents as not being gone, but that I now have “extra” angels on my side.

When the dark cloud that loomed over my head and heart finally lifted, I started to turn my life and my attitude around. And even though I suffered through a terrible illness this year, that showed me just how many people care about me. My outlook on life has made a 180-degree turn and this has honestly been one of the best years of my life.

It just goes to show, that even when things seem the worst, life does go on and it does get better. You just have to give it time and keep a positive attitude.

Mondee Tilley is a staff reporter with The Mount Airy News. She can be reached at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.