Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
I don't have a lot of time to write this post because Thanksgiving is in full swing and so is the anticipated commotion that accompanies it. But I have a tradition of writing a list of things for which I am thankful on Thanksgiving, so I didn't want the holiday to pass without taking the time to do it. I have no time for planning or editing, so you're going to get this in a single, unedited, stream-of-consciousness writing.I am thankful for:
My career. It certainly isn't exactly what I want it to be, but each year takes me a little closer. I'm thankful for the opportunities to speak at major events (twice this year!), collaborate with other dedicated, compassionate, intellectual educators, and continually improve my skills and knowledge.
My students. Sure, I occasionally get a difficult one that I'd rather not deal with, but most of my students are friendly, fun, respectful, creative, and hard-working. Many of them are exactly the types of people with whom I like to work.
My colleagues. This year has provided some great opportunities for me to meet new colleagues and get to know the ones I'd already met. I'm thankful for the support we offer each other, in both professional and personal ways. It flatters me that some of them have trusted to confide some very personal things in me, and that is something that I take very seriously.
My friends. I carry a perpetual burden of guilt regarding the lack of contact I have with my friends, and I don't see any easy way to fix that. However, I am extremely thankful for those who have helped me to improve the frequency of my contact with them. Some very old and dear friendships have been resuscitated this year just by making small efforts to reach out every once in a while. I hope this continues, and possibly spreads to other friends, old and new, who I miss terribly. I don't know if anything can cure my loneliness, but having contact with people who care certainly helps.
My education. Not only do all of my past experiences factor into everything I do, but I also started attending graduate school again to pursue my Ph.D. this year. I am thankful for the opportunity to do this, the support provided by my employer, and the fantastic experiences I've had so far in this program. It's perhaps the most exciting thing I have going on right now.
My house. I complain all the time because my current house is twice as expensive but half as good as my old house, but I have to admit that it's far from being the worst thing people live in. I'm thankful that it's adequately comfortable and functional, that it's in a good location, and that I have a home at all. Not everybody does.
This list feels incomplete, so I may add to it if I'm so inspired. But it'll do for now.
Again...Happy Thanksgiving!
