It’s probably safe to say that this year has been like no other for us. Through it all, there have been many who have sacrificed and given so much: some their lives, others their strength and time, and others simply their care, concern and love. As we look forward to the year 2021, with hopes for ending the pandemic, we can all reflect on two powerful things that hold us together as a human race—gratitude and family.

Russell M. Nelson, a retired cardiologist and current President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently encouraged everyone to make gratitude a central focus of this holiday season, to advance emotional, spiritual, and physical healing. Using the hashtag #GiveThanks, a multitude of messages of gratitude flooded social media around the world, including over 3.5 million on Instagram, over 4.1 million on Facebook, and many millions more on Twitter. It was though a light shone through our favorite media platforms, dispelling some of the negativity that had been building up in these tense times.

Even though many of us are not able to meet with family this holiday season, whether it be at Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or other celebrations, let us reflect on choice memories of past years. Going further, let us also reflect on the wonderful family members who came before us; they also sacrificed and gave much, in a multitude of times and places. The more we learn about them, the more our hearts fill with gratitude to know about their lives and who they really were.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday season, and here’s to a 2021 filled with hope, happiness, and family history.

The Family History Guide Association