What I'm Most Thankful For

Family and friends, of course. But most of all a mother who turned tragedy into compassion, fear into love, and ignorance into understanding.

A portrait of my mother, June Judge (née Brandmill), in the 1950s.

As my mother likes to say, “We’re starting a new tradition this year!” From this Thanksgiving on, I’ll be publishing this piece, in honor of my mother, on or before the third Thursday of November. Hope you enjoy it—along with family and friends gathered around a lovely table—wherever you may be, each year. Happy Thanksgiving, MJ

By Michael Judge

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I’ve been reflecting on what I’m most thankful for. First and foremost, my family and friends, who, over time, have grown together, like a tree that grafts with a neighboring tree, making both stronger. And believe me, I’m grateful for that combined strength every day of my life. 

If you’re a TFP reader, you may be familiar with my family’s story. In 1979, when I was 13, my oldest brother, Steve, a dashing young Air Force Academy cadet, was diagnosed with encephalitis, and soon after, schizophrenia. It’s hard to overstate the blow this was …