Thanksgiving 2014. It’s easy to focus on all that is wrong in the world: civil war in Syria, domestic demonstrations, Ebola epidemic, sluggish economy, ISIS attacks, Palestinian-Israeli conflict, etc. If you want to be depressed, just pick up a newspaper or tune into the news on radio, television, or Internet.
Nevertheless, we all have much to be thankful for this season. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of how we choose to view events.
For example, I could choose to view 2014 as a brutal year due to my battle with cancer. On the other hand, I can choose to view 2014 as a heart-warming year as I felt the love from so many during my winning battle with cancer. 2014 is the year I came close to death, but it’s also the year I received a new lease on life. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of how we choose to view events. For me, I’ll choose to think of the glass as half full rather than half-empty.
I have much to be thankful for. Among many other things, I’m thankful for:
- My life. I began the year fearing that death was near. I finish the year knowing I have a normal life expectancy.
- The many good thoughts, prayers, love, and helpful acts from friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers.
- The medical teams at the University of Pennsylvania Abramson Cancer Center and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Shadyside. They literally saved my life.
- My readers and clients for their patience and for standing by me.
- My wife for her heroic efforts, strength, perseverance, and help. She continues to amaze and inspire me.
Thanksgiving is a time for us to reflect on our blessings. It’s a time for us to be with friends and family. While I’ve always understood this, the meaning of this special day has been amplified for me this year.
Michael Rosen Says... 