With no “t” key on my laptop, low milk prices, a poor memory and a mountain of dirty laundry, I just can’t see my way clear to be thankful for much of anything. But when I take my focus off me, there is a whole wide world of blessings to be thankful for, and I can start with a man from Indiana.

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard about Heath Penick and his tragic fall from a silo on his dairy farm in Orland. Rushed to the hospital, void of any hope of living, Heath has beat all odds and is still recovering in the hospital. With crushed feet, an unrecognizable face and in a coma for weeks, Heath is now sitting up on the side of the bed, can recognize pictures and show emotion.

This is nothing short of a miracle, to say the least. But what’s even more wonderful is the crowd of caring people around the country who have committed to praying for Heath and his family, and now have organized two fundraising events to help defray the costs of his medical bills.

One fundraiser is slated for the end of this month to be held in Coldwater, Mich., and the other is to be held in January, hosted by Mooville Creamery in Nashville, Mich.

In my eyes, this is a miracle of generosity in an industry of dairy farmers who are struggling to stay in business and are now opening up their treasure chests to give to one of their own in need. Now that’s something to be thankful for.

Our greatest natural resource came through again on my behalf, giving me another reason to say “thanks.”

I was in need of some assistance, 400 or so miles away and in a foreign country – while I was at home, I needed someone or two to help an associate at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. At the last hour I made one phone call and a team of capable youth were on their way to the rescue my associate.

These teenagers were on a fun trip. With no expectations on them, they were enjoying some time together at one of their favorite events. When I called, there was no hesitation about whether to help or not: They just stepped up and did what needed to be done.
Am I proud? You bet. But more than that, I realized the future of our dairy industry is not only in some very capable hands, but some very generous and sacrificial hands as well.

When you sit around your table this week sharing your thanksgiving feast with one or 25, count your blessings and say thanks that you have a table to sit down at, that there is food to enjoy and that you have a roof over your head. Life is good.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Readers with questions or comments for Melissa Hart, or who want to learn more about the fundraising events for Heath Penick, may write to her in care of this publication.