I think it’s fair to say that holidays in this country have lost their true meaning, but have become nothing more than excuses to party and shop. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it has the purest intention. Most of us, perhaps all of us, have many reasons to be thankful in our lives, but in the rush of daily activities we tend to take them for granted, often dwelling on the stresses and failures rather than enjoy the benefits and successes. So twice a year I try to remind myself of what is good about my life (the other time being New Year’s when I recap the past year in my journal) and, at least on this one day, be thankful for them. Here are some of the things I am most thankful for:

• my health: except for a bad back which flares up periodically, I am very lucky to have been in basically good health my entire life;

• my family: I could not imagine a better family than I have, period; no matter how stressful a day might be, coming home is always a delight;

• my job: I love teaching and I am fortunate to have wonderful students year after year, including a few special students who have made the math lab a second home, some of whom I have stayed friendly with long after they graduated;

• my books: life without a passion would be dry and boring at times; so long as I have my reading and writing, I am never bored and do not anticipate ever being so.

What about you? Have you spent a few moments today reflecting on the joys of your life? Happy Thanksgiving!