Thanksgiving

Last week was Thanksgiving. It's my favorite Holiday - bar none. As Americans we are so wealthy in comparison to other parts of the world that we really need to give thanks for all we have. Our health care is better. Our environment is better. We have sewer and/or septic systems. We have a food system that works. It is really amazing.

Yet in the midst of this wealth we know that more children in our country are poor. There are challenges with homelessness (see 60 Minutes from 11/27) and foreclosures. People are un- or under employed. It is tough out there.

In my personal life I've been getting healthier each day. My weight is improving. I feel like my hydration is getting better. I have a lot to be thankful for.

Then last night - bam! I had a fever of 103, chills, short breaths and a racing heart. I ended up coming to the Hospital and admitted to ICU/Telometry. It looks like I have an infected hickman line and some sepsis. It is really frustrating. But for some reason, I'm still thankful. I was able to eat for Thanksgiving while two years ago I couldn't. I haven't had to have a transplant. My children are doing fairly well. My wife and I have jobs when many don't.

I think if Americans could generate an attitude of Thanksgiving 365 days a year rather than just one, we would be a lot happier even in the midst of terrible situations.