Tuesday Truths · November 3, 2026 · By Michele Rase, AGE-GILITY™ Vibrancy Specialist
Who Would You “Thank” on Page One?
Do you read the acknowledgments in a book? Be honest. I’m an author. I can take it.
I read them differently these days. I know how many people it takes to put one name on a cover.
Here in Rochester, the trees are letting go of their leaves much more gracefully than I’m letting go of my flip-flops. I do love summer! I’ve moved my walks and errands a little earlier to catch the daylight. And while I’ve got my November calendar open, I’m penciling in a few thank-yous, too.
📚 The people behind the name on the cover
At 74, I’m proud to say my latest self-published book, Start Where You Are: Declutter Your Home, Declutter Your Life, made an international bestseller list! It’s on Audible now, too. I know how it feels to open a box in the basement and find things that belonged to someone you loved. If you’ve got a box like that waiting for you, put on your headphones. I’m glad the book can keep you company down there.
To my friend and editor, Nella: Thank You. And if you read a chapter, left a review, or told a friend, “I think you’d like this one,” Thank You, too. Yes, that includes those of you who cheered me on with a reaction to my Facebook post. Those little hearts made my day!
🍁 Giving thanks close to home
On Veterans Day, November 11, my first thank-you goes to my husband and his two brothers, who all served. A whole stretch of someone’s life gets tucked into the words “I was in the service.” To the three of you, to veterans whose names I’ll never know, and to the families who kept things going back home, Thank You.
Native American Heritage Month gives us a chance to learn from our neighbors here in western New York. A couple of weeks ago, I hiked the trails at Ganondagan in Victor. They’re beautiful. If you go, leave time for the Seneca Art & Culture Center, where you can explore Seneca history and see what Native artists are creating today. I’m grateful to the people who share that history and art with us. Thank You. Explore Ganondagan’s online gallery.
💛 The friend who remembers to call
World Kindness Day is November 13. When I count my blessings, I picture faces. There’s the friend who saves you a seat, the one who offers to drive, and the one who calls a week later to ask, “How did that appointment go?” If someone just came to mind, hold on to that name. Thank You.
MO-vember, which is also celebrated in November, makes me think of the men who are always checking on everybody else. Who checks on them? Those mustaches start conversations about men’s health, including mental health, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. You can start one with a phone call. “I’ve got a few minutes and wanted to hear how you’re doing.” Then give him those minutes. Thank you to our men.
✍️ A thank-you they can hear
This November, I’m letting go of one little sentence. Oh, I’m sure they know. I can give a lovely thank-you speech in the car on the way home. The trouble is, the person I’m thanking can’t hear a word of it.
Who would you thank on page one of your book of life? Who is that one person who came to mind? “
Therefore, send them a line of gratitude acknowledgments today, while you’re thinking of them
“Thanks for saving me a seat when I was running late. That’s plenty.
And to those of you who make time for me on Tuesdays, I’m so glad you’re here.
Thank you!
Happy November, friends,
And remember to get out and vote today.
Bye for now!
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