Nonthanksgiving

I had a chat with my former roommate from two years ago. He’s an Army “reservist” currently in Iraq.

Nicholas Barnard: Happy Thanksgiving!

Former Roommate: you too

Former Roommate: how are you

Nicholas Barnard: I’m doing well. Just about to go to bed actually, but I’m just working and doing my thing.. Nothing really different

Former Roommate: well good night

Nicholas Barnard: Thank you. You take care of yourself and keep your head up! We’re all appreciative of the sacrifices you guys (and gals) have been makin..

Former Roommate: thank you

Former Roommate: and we are thankful of yall supportin us

Nicholas Barnard: well night..

Former Roommate: night

(I made a few spelling and punctuation corrections)

I struggled when I was typing, “We’re all appreciative of the sacrifices you guys (and gals) have been makin..” I was going to say I am thankful for their sacrifices, but I am not. I am thankful for those men and women from my and previous generations that honor and serve our great diverse nation, but I am not thankful that they are in and dying in Iraq.

While I do have the luxury of hindsight, I feel as if we were sold a false bill of goods. There are no WMDs, Saddam and Osama Bin Laden are still on the run, we have spent a massive amount of money, and we have alienated our allies. We have all paid an uncalculated price, some of us will pay a small price, some of us paying a larger long term price, and finally others have paid the largest ultimate price. I respect and appreciate those in the latter two categories, but not thankful they are where they are.

Enough politics.

I am thankful for my daily protection from others and the elements.

I am thankful to have a job I enjoy, and provide for those who need my assistance.

I am thankful that I can be me, regardless of social structures.

I am thankful for those that challenge me and push me.

I am thankful for my ability and power to articulate and my wonderful family, friends and coworkers who support me, and make life as enjoyable and interesting as it is.

I am thankful to be here, life is an amazing privilege that we have been granted, and sometimes take for granted.

I am thankful to be.