There could be a large number of reasons why you may be alone on Thanksgiving--maybe family members are too far apart or do not get along; maybe a loved one is deployed or overseas; maybe there simply are no loved ones.

To those that find themselves alone during Thanksgiving, and the holiday season in general, I am sorry. In all the commotion over who gets to cut the Turkey or watching the Macy's Parade on television, you probably feel forgotten. You watch as others go off to celebrate, with the people they cherish most in their lives, and you wonder, "Why don't I get that?"

It is easy to get disheartened, especially during a holiday where people are told to remember what they are truly thankful for--you may feel like you have nothing to be thankful for. I cannot imagine how difficult it must be, but, you are not alone in this world.

You may feel like you are, and even if your loved ones have left this Earth, you are not alone. I will admit, there are people who judge, people who turn others away for trivial reasons, but for the most part, many open their arms to comfort and care for those who have no one. Do not be discouraged--which is difficult to do in such a tense and distressing political climate.

You can seek comfort in those around you--no matter who it is. Maybe it is a neighbor, or a client, or a co-worker; seek out the companionship of someone. Do not sit and suffer in silence. People have more good in their hearts than you would think.

You have nothing to be ashamed of. It is not your fault, whatever the reason is, that you are alone. God has led you to this point in your life for a reason, and no matter how awful it is, you will find comfort and peace. Reach out to those around you and find someone to spend the holidays with.

I myself was alone on Thanksgiving for the past two years; going to school in Arizona while my family is in Illinois makes traveling often difficult. It was so close to winter break that I just decided to stay at school. I had the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving with a friend from home's uncle who happened to live in Phoenix. Initially, I felt weird about it, but he made me feel as welcome as possible.

I cherish those two Thanksgivings that Uncle Billy brought me into his home. Sadly, he passed away suddenly last spring. He made such a difference in my life, and I really loved him like my own family. Even just getting the chance to spend a holiday with someone, anyone, is better than being by yourself.

Do not be upset or angry--simply enjoy the opportunity to spend time with those around you. Cherish the memories you make with the people in your life, because you might find yourself without them in the blink of an eye. Make the most of your relationships, make amends with the relatives you might not speak to anymore, because it will mean more to them (and you) then you will ever know.