Appreciation

This is something I need to do before I get so caught up in my new life that I forget to do it altogether.  That something is: I need to tell a whole lot of people, "thank you" for everything they've done to help me be where I am and who I am.  

So naturally, I thank my parents.  I thank them for all they gave me while I was growing up.  And that doesn't just mean the Christmas presents and trips to Disney World.  Of course, those were great.  But I thank them also -- or rather thank them more so -- for the times they were strict.  More specifically, I'm thankful to both of my parents for all the times they took the time to explain to me why I couldn't do something I wanted to do or get something I wanted to get.  Those explanations helped me create a strong set of values which are the tools I use for making decisions in my life today.  

As for the other people I need to give appreciation to, I have a huge list, but I really shouldn't bore you with a dozen thousand names.  Rather let me say: 

"Thank you" to the people who have loved me -- both for just being me, and, sometimes, despite just being me.  More than anything, it is everyone's love that gives me the strength and courage to live.  No love, no live.  And I love you all right back.

"Thank you" to all the people who have taught me -- consciously or inadvertently.  We are all only as wise as our own experiences and what we can learn from the experiences of others.  I know I am far from wise, but any wisdom I have is less my own than it is a gift to me from the many people I've known.

And, "thank you" to all of you who have given me my smile.  It is my smile, and my ability to keep smiling even at the cloudiest of times, that helps me to do more than just survive, but to really enjoy life.  It is a gift that I love to receive and love, also, to give.

So if you've given me love, lessons or laughter, you know who you are.  You are important to me, and I hope I can return the gift.  Thank you.