Thanksgiving Reflections: Moving Forward with Gratitude and Resilience

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our many blessings. In our fast-paced, often chaotic world, it’s easy to overlook them, yet developing a habit of gratitude can be grounding and fulfilling.

Start with what’s around you: family, friends, and the conveniences and technologies that enrich our daily lives. Medical advancements help us stay healthier, and modern transportation enables us to reunite with loved ones during the holidays. And, when travel isn’t possible, I’m personally grateful for video calls that let me stay close to family and friends even when we're far apart. It’s not quite the same as being there in person, but it bridges the distance and brings us together in a meaningful way.

Every four years we brace for election results. Every time, Americans are not deterred from doing what we do best—uniting, innovating, and building resilience. As Dimensional CEO David Booth wisely notes, “The market is not a reflection of who gets elected president but of the efforts of companies to solve problems and provide goods and services. In the long run, innovation succeeds, no matter what politicians do.” Looking ahead, I’m also grateful for the resilience I see in my clients and colleagues. From navigating market ups and downs to planning for the future, their optimism and determination inspire me and reaffirm my gratitude for the work we do.

In this season of gratitude, let’s also acknowledge that while it’s natural to feel that today’s challenges are uniquely difficult, the road forward remains promising. As investment legend Sir John Templeton once observed, “The four most dangerous words in investing are: This time it’s different.” Markets look forward, and history has shown us that innovation and growth prevail, even when current events make it hard to believe.

So, this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to celebrate the small comforts, the connections that bring us joy, and the resilience that drives us forward. What are you most grateful for this season?

Matt & the FVIM Team