I am truly blessed. There are so many wonderful things in my life I am thankful for. Still, for just a moment, I’d like to consider the not so great things that befall all mankind.
I am thankful for the mistakes I’ve made in life. From them I’ve gained firm commitment to always try to do what is right.
I am thankful for any physical sufferings I experienced. From them I’ve learned how to survive and, just because I might be miserable, that doesn’t mean I need make others so.
I am thankful for the times life has been unfair. From that I have learned forgiveness and the meaning of mercy. I’ve learned that any ugliness surrounding me does not need to turn me ugly inside.
I am thankful for my moments of sorrow. From them I’ve learned empathy and compassion.
I am thankful for the times I’ve made a complete donkey out of myself. From them I’ve learned humility and the true value of a reputation.
I am thankful to know that I will probably fail at each and every one of the above again at some point in my life. From that I realize I am not perfect and I’ve nothing to be arrogant about.
I am thankful to be able to look back on my life thus far and appreciate what a boon failure and misfortune can be if I let them. From there I am able to look forward and realize I’ve a lot of life ahead, much left to learn, and many personal improvements yet to make. I can see the great adventure continuing, and that brings me joy.
Above all I am thankful for my fellow travelers on this adventure; my friends and my spectacular wife, each of who love me enough to risk telling me things I don't want to hear, the hard and sometimes ugly truths about myself.
From you all I have learned how to love.