It is Thanksgiving Day in Canada, and although some don't think we make a big deal of it up here it is a big deal for me. For me it is a day to reflect on just how lucky a person I am, a day for family, and a one of four days in the year for a huge family feast.
I am a very lucky man. I'm very much aware of that fact. I know that every day people face this world hungry, cold and alone. That every day some people face their challenges unloved, and their victories alone, with no one to share their good, or help shoulder their bad. I have never had to face anything alone.
I'm lucky and blessed to have parents who love me, and care deeply about my life. Parents who are still healthy and as lucid as they ever were. Parents who instilled in me a strong sense of self worth and the confidence to know my roots but seek my way in life away from those roots. Parents who have taught me the value of facing the world with humour, and with compassion.
I'm graced with a sister and brother (and their families) whose love for me and each other knows no bounds. Whose intellect and wit constantly challenges me to keep mine as sharp as I can. Who help anchor our family and whose closeness to our roots fills me with admiration and sometimes envy.
I know great love in my life, and am a better man because of it. I'm blessed with a wonderful wife whose love for me constantly makes me wonder just how I could be so lucky to have her in my life. The less self assured part of me wonders what I could possibly have done in my life to deserve her in it.
I've known great love in my life previously as well, and a large part of who I am goes back to having Janice in my life, as briefly as she was.
I know great love in my life, shown to me through the eyes of my two incredible, and loving children. I know more joy than I thought possible because of them, and every day that joy and love grows.
I have rarely wanted for anything in this world, and there are many who do. I live in a world filled with wonderous things, sights that dazzle and tiny lives that give me pause.
I have many friends, including many of you who read this blog. If a man can be counted richer by the company he keeps than I am wealthy beyond my wildest dreams.
I am a lucky man. For that, and for the people in my life who I love, and who love me back, I am truly grateful.