As we plunge into the depths of winter’s darkness, I know many islanders are feeling stressed, depressed or ill at ease for a variety of reasons. I want to urge us to take a collective deep breath and give thanks to what matters most, and pull each other close.

Looking around the world today, I give thanks for this community, our creativity, passion and compassion. I love the way we pull together when things get rough and keep an eye on one another. San Juan County’s Department of Emergency Management Director Brandon Cowan once reflected that the communities that are most resilient and able to rebound the fastest after disasters are the ones that look out for each other. If we continue sticking together the way we always have, we islanders will survive whatever may come our way.

I give thanks to the ferry workers who have been put through the wringer over the past four-plus years.

Thanks to all the farmers who provide us with nourishment so we may all keep going another day. Speaking of food – a shout out to birds, bees and all the pollinators who we literally could not live without.

I am thankful for art, music and nature all of which have helped me rise up from my darkest days.

Similarly, I am thankful for all my loved ones who always have my back.

I give thanks for change. Knowing nothing lasts forever makes each moment precious.

I am grateful for words, communication and, of course, our readers. I love the enthusiasm and courage behind your letters. Thank you for engaging with us.

Thank you to our columnists, Steve Ulvi, Peggy Sue McRae, Kimberly Mayer and Teresa Smith, our freelancers Jeff Noedel, Kristina Stucki and Julie Corey McIntire, who is now a member of our team. A big thank you to Joanna Massey, our new copy editor, who has been an amazing help. Thank you to the League of Women Voters Observer Corps for keeping us on top of public meetings.

For those still feeling down, one might find strength from French writer Albert Camus, who wrote “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” As we plunge into the holiday season, let the light and sparkle within each of us shine and guide us through winter’s darkness, knowing that the dark always eventually gives way to spring flowers and summer sun.

Happy Thanksgiving!