A father whose guidance is still felt eight years after his death. A childhood friend whose memory is a reminder to appreciate life. A teacher who helped a new student feel like he belonged. This Thanksgiving, CTV News asked people to look back and answer a question: Who from your past are you thankful for? For Raghapriya Sonniya, the answer was her father, who died eight years ago. “When life gets very difficult and becomes a roller coaster, that’s the time when I sit down and say, ‘What would you do if you were next to me?’” Sonniya said. Sometimes, she said, an answer comes during something as simple as taking one of her children to daycare or parking her car. “I feel that he’s always there to guide me … and I’m so thankful for that.” “I know he’s not with me, but I feel every moment that he’s always there like an angel.” Ashwath Navaneethakrishnan remembered a childhood friend who died in 2024 — someone who taught him to have fun and not take everything so seriously. “I learned a lot about not taking things seriously and letting life go and just having fun while you’re at it,” Navaneethakrishnan said. After his friend’s death, he said he thought more about “being in the moment and being grateful for what you have” and “knowing it doesn’t last forever.” For Diya Maisuria, a best friend helped turn shyness into the confidence to pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. “He’s always encouraged me to put myself out there, to reach for opportunities that I thought were almost impossible,” Maisuria said. “So I do believe that I became better because of him, and I’m very thankful for him.” Aarush Malbari credited a Grade 9 science teacher with helping him find his footing after moving from Toronto and starting at a new high school. “So, new high school, new friends. She introduced me to some kids and just helped me fit in. I’m thankful for her,” Malbari said. The teacher introduced him to her son and his friends, helping him find a group where he felt comfortable. Without her help, Malbari said, “It would have definitely taken me longer” to meet new people. Navaneethakrishnan also expressed gratitude for a grade-school music teacher who helped develop his musical skills and supported him beyond the classroom. “He’s the one who recommended me to go to the high school I go to now,” he said, referring to Walkerville. “I feel like without him I wouldn’t be where I am today.” For Tejas Kancheti, the answer was closer to home: his sister. “I’m thankful for my sister because if I’d never had her, then I would have never had someone to play with at home when I was all alone,” Kancheti said.
