Happy Thanksgiving

Of course, I'm hardly the first to say this, but at this time of year on this particular day, we really need to step back and take stock of our lives and realize how God has blessed us. There are so many, many ways we as a people are so very fortunate. In spite of our political squabbles and doubts of the future, we still live in the best country in the world. We have more personal freedoms than our fellow travelers. We are wealthier - in that even our poor are considered rich beyond the dreams of those who suffer globally. We, in spite of our current leadership, have a health care system second to none. We have religious freedoms none can match. We can, if we choose, raise our standard of living by improving ourselves and working hard - as opposed to circumstances of birth holding us in our place. No, we're not perfect as a nation, and we have plenty who think the things that I have outlined as qualities are in fact defects, but the legions of those who want to come here is testament against that kind of thinking.

Personally, I'm thankful I'm even alive. A hundred years ago, I'd have died as a teenager - my appendix would have done me in. And after open heart surgery? Are you kidding me?

I'm thankful for my family and friends. I have the best sister ever. She'd go to the depths of hell for me, just because I'm her brother. You always find out about the quality of your friends when things unravel, and mine have come through in spades. I have to include my "internet" friends - y'all have meant more to me than you'll ever know.

I am thankful for my job. My employer kept me on during my recovery from surgery and when business for them really slowed down - it was a financial hardship for me not working the hours I needed, but laying me off and losing their health insurance would have been an even more severe blow. They continue to show I'm valuable to them in little ways. We carp about our wages, but after working for those who think of employees as overpaid and underworked Social Security numbers, I can really appreciate the efforts expended.

Probably my biggest problem at the moment is obesity. I really, really need to lose weight. I've looked into lap band surgery. I'm gonna celebrate Thanksgiving by indulging myself once again. The irony does not escape me.

But, on this day, the pluses far outweigh the minuses - as, in fact, they do every day. I hope that all of you have a joyous holiday with friends and relatives, and appreciate what you have. I'll be doing the same.