Today is Gratitude inDay, so I’ve spent a little time thinking about the things I’m grateful for. The top of that list is pretty standard: Family & Friends - the people who are there for me, who I can depend on, who I try desperately not to take for granted and celebrate whenever I can. Expanding a little way beyond that in the category of People, I’m grateful for anyone who’s ever taken a chance on me, gone to bat on my behalf, given me the benefit of the doubt, or cut me a little slack when I fucked up. If I really think about it, I’m also grateful for the less-dependable friends I’ve had over the years. I suspect most people have at least one friend who comes to mind here - the one who is the most fun (if they show up). The world needs flakes, too.
In the category of Prosperity I’m grateful for being gainfully employed doing interesting work with a purpose I believe in, but I also think back on all the crappy jobs I’ve had with a certain fondness. I spent a summer working at a Dairy Queen, I sold footwear at a sporting goods chain, I was a waiter /bartender in a steakhouse for a few years. These were all experiences that shaped who I am today. I have a buddy (who also did a stint as a waiter) who firmly believes that everyone should be required to spend at least one year working customer service as a character- and compassion-building exercise. I tend to agree with him.
I’m grateful for the pig. If we’ve ever had a conversation about food you’ve probably heard me say that if I had to pick one animal that was the only animal that I could eat for the rest of my life, it would be the pig. Ham. Bacon. Ribs. Sausages, pulled pork…oh man, carnitas! I also love beef and chicken and seafood…but the pig? You can take any part of this animal and make something delicious out of it. It’s incredible.
_I’m grateful to live in an age of Modern Miracles. The microwave. The internal combustion engine. Indoor electricity, forced-air HVAC, and plumbing. (I _ enjoy camping, but anyone who tells you they prefer pooping outside out of necessity and not by choice is insane.)
I’m grateful for cd92.9 (nee cd102.5, nee cd101) - a fundamental part of the Columbus local music community, hands-down my favorite alternative radio station, and one that I’ve been listening to for the better part of 25 years now.
I’m grateful for Me - for existence, for conscious thought and human experience. Cogito ergo gratus sum, eh?
What are you grateful for?