On the eve of Thanksgiving, I find myself being very thankful for so much.
Tough – I’m tougher than I think I am and this past year proved it. From the absolute highs of life to the absolute lows, I survived and moved forward and will keep doing so because anything else is quitting.
Horizon – This year has seen some huge changes in my life and more are in the works. It scares the crap out of me, to tell the truth, but it also excites me. I also know how incredibly lucky I am because even with all the changes and challenges, I’m safe. I have a safety net of people around me. I know there are people out there who don’t have such a thing and I remind myself to be appreciative.
Adventure – I got to live in Korea!! I might be going back – the door is still open to that but even if I don’t I had the rare opportunity to find out what it’s like to be a minority, to look different than most of the people around me. To move to a country where I didn’t speak the language, had to adapt and learn about everything that I normally take for granted. It was a very eye-opening experience.
Nalini – I mean, I met Nalini Singh. How many people get to say they met a favorite author and have her give you a pep talk??
Kid – I have the best kid in the world. I know all parents think that and it’s true for each of us. But each Thanksgiving I’m brought back to her first, when we didn’t know if she would be here for a second. She’s an amazing person, full of kindness and compassion and I’m so proud I could burst each time I think about it.
Friends – There’s a meme that makes its way around the internet from time to time: Friends come into your life for a season, a reason or a lifetime. I’m almost speechless to think of the people that have touched my life, whether for a moment or longer. I had lunch with a college friend recently and we hadn’t seen each other for more than 25 years but it didn’t matter. So if I haven’t seen you for decades, or I saw you yesterday, you are a special part of my life. Thank you for being around.
Understanding – Being in the life of a writer takes a special kind of patience because we tend to lose focus when the muse hits. Hopefully, nothing is on the stove but if it is, we thank you for nodding with a smile as you order pizza. Again.
Love – You know those cheesy novels that mention the lump in the throat when looking at the one you love. Yep? I have it when I think of my friends and family. I’m so very fortunate to have the support system I do, even when they drive me nuts. I hope you are just as fortunate and if today or any other day you find yourself feeling alone, consider yourself hugged.