I realize we’re a little past Thanksgiving. Things got away from me of late. But we’re in the time of year when I get a little wistful, and start thinking about the things that I’m grateful for. Especially with my favorite holiday (Christmas) upon us.
So without further ado, here is the abbreviated list of what I’m thankful for this holiday season…
- My family. Over the years I’ve really come to determine that there are only two things in this world that really matter. And by far, the first is family. My wife and kids are healthy and doing well. My dad just had yet another knee replacement but is on the mend. My stepmom, my brother and his wife and girls, are all doing fine. Your family really is the most important thing in this world.
- My health. This is the other thing that really matters. Yes, I could drop 20 pounds (I can hear my wife telling me not to eat dessert as I write this) but overall I’m a pretty healthy guy. I don’t smoke. Don’t drink much (can’t afford to drink the wine I like). I use our treadmill and lift weights a couple of times a week, walk the golf course, etc. All in all, I have my health, and I’m very thankful for that. What’s for dessert tonight anyway?
- My job. Ok, I’m a little down on work right now. It’s been a bit of a rough fall, for reasons I won’t bore you with. But despite the fact that I’m not jumping out of bed to go to work right now, I am thankful for my little company and the stellar services we provide. Yes, work provides a much needed paycheck, but it also provides structure and a sense of accomplishment. I don’t know what I’d do all day if I was independently wealthy and didn’t have to work, but I’d bet I’d be bored. Wouldn’t mind trying it though…
- My clients. We just parted ways with a truly awful, albeit long time client, and while I miss the revenue, I’m glad to say that I will never have to deal with another call or email from those crazy malcontents again. Other than that, the good that came out of it is that it makes me think about how much I appreciate all the clients we have who are genuinely appreciative of the hard work we put into their accounts each and every day.
- Golf. If you’ve been one of the handful of people who have read these blog posts each month, you know I’m not nearly the golfer I used to be. But I still love the game, still enjoy competing, and I’m still grateful for the ability to play golf. Just not as often as I’d like.
- Friends. Admittedly, I’m not the best at keeping in touch. But I do very much appreciate my buddies, who are there for me when I need them. You need friends in life, and I’m grateful for mine. They can always count on me for a kick in the ass or a hug. Whatever they need.
- My dog. He’s as dumb as a bag of rocks, but loyal, cute, and great with my kids. Who doesn’t love an 80 pound Yellow Lab rescue?
Alright, that just about does it. If I forgot anything of great importance, I’ll try to remember it for next year’s blog post. For now, I’m going to continue to try and practice gratitude. It really is the best way to put a smile on your face.
