Sick for the first time in Spain and thankful.

It may be the widespread panic over la gripe A (h1n1) or it may be the fact that I have been working with sick little kids, but this morning I woke up feeling a bit strange. I went to school not thinking much of it, and didn't really want to ask to go home since I work so few hours in the institute. However, when I told Alfonso - one of the best teachers you will ever meet - that I felt strange, he said "Go home! What are you doing here?! Health first!". I was surprised and relieved at the same time. My buddy Matt is coming later today for our weekend long Thanksgiving celebration and I want to feel well.

So here I am, sitting in my bed, listening to some Andrew Bird (which I highly suggest if you don't know him already) and contemplating the ways in which I can be thankful. So let's list a few: my family for being supportive of my education, my interests, even though they may lead me abroad for long periods of time; my excellent professors that have motivated me and opened doors both mental and physical for me; my friends, Ellen and Eric, that helped me make this possible financially; my friends, Kendell, Laurel, Kevin, Laurie, Jake, Nicola, Annie, James, Uma and for sure many others that helped support me when I was doubting myself in this or anything else; and last but not least, that all-controversial being, God, who I believe keeps the good works and love circulating on this big rock. If I didn't include you and should have, feel free to comment and tell me what I jerk I am.

The point is, there are innumerable things to be thankful for, but yet I think we find ourselves thinking about desires and goals that haven't been fulfilled or will be able to be fulfilled. I'd like to not focus on those, -which is often my number one flaw - but rather on what has gone well for me. Try and do the same today, I think it will make you feel better, even if you are already feeling good. Think of how many people have helped you or tried to help you, how many people have said kind words to you and meant them or even of the good things you have done unconsciously and have helped others.

This all may sound a bit preachy, but I do it more for myself than anything, because I like to get these thoughts out of my head and down on to "paper". Either way, I hope you find something useful or at least worth reading. Today I am thankful for each and everyone of you.