Ispent the weekend in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with my biological father and his wife. I was adopted as an infant, and he never knew of my existence. We found each other through the Ancestry website. I was interested in my ethnic makeup; I wasn’t really looking for relatives — but I found a second family, and they welcomed me in, and for that I am grateful.

Thanksgiving approaches, and at this time of year we are urged to count our blessings, to be mindful of the good things in our lives. Found family, or the families that we craft for ourselves, are definitely a blessing.

From a scientific perspective, focusing on the positive aspects of our lives — on the fullness, rather than the deficits — has mental and physical health benefits.

Melody Beattie said, “Gratitude makes sen

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