We're both children of November, 1947. 
As a man, your post brings bittersweet memories. I was raised by folks in the country (farmers and timber men) that survived the Great Depression. They were all very poor and everyone was brought to their knees and after that, many of them went to war. Compared to today's consumerist society, I don't know how they survived. Both my parents only made it through 8th grade, and my mom got to ride the mule to school!
I'm describing this because I'm forever grateful for those men and women who taught me to be a gentleman at all costs, and to be kind and unselfish. We were also taught that in church back then, along with good manners in school.
In this day and age, it's increasingly difficult to maintain these standards because the world is trending to an everyone for themselves, dog-eat-dog attitude. And, anyone that tries to be a lady or gentleman is trampled. I just hope we all survive this time, and perhaps somehow reverse those trends.
Thank you for your kind, encouraging words. Thanksgiving should be a day of reflection and humility, and you are following that tradition!
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