Giving Thanks

It is pretty easy in today's world to be pretty down. The economy sucks, the weather is generally turning to cold and here in Atlanta it has been downright dreary! The days get longer, work piles up, the kids are either ignoring you or being obnoxious and at times it feels very lonely. Through all of this it is often easy to overlook all the good; all the reasons to smile, lift up you head, breathe in some fresh air and get some positive perspective. It can't happen all the time, and I know there will be dark days ahead but my focus on this season of thanks, into the holidays and then onto a new decade (can you believe that? Already!!!) I am going to continue to try and see the glass is more than half full and allow change happen but not allow it to control me.

So what am I thankful for this year? here is my 'short' list, from the extremely important to the silly and sublime (Why not, it's my list!):

Family - from the girls, to my parents, siblings and extended family who have been so supportive through a very turbulent year.

Work - funny, most people are not very thankful of work and their peers but maybe in a tough economy that will change. In the past couple of weeks I have returned to the 'space' and industry I love and am passionate about. I embark on a whole new challenge that began on the 9th but really takes of on the 30th when I 'relocate' my work life to New York City. While I certainly have mixed emotions about the process, I am sticking to the positives here - New York City --- I really believe that if I can make it there I can make it anywhere. So much to experience and do. The company I work for (www.definition6.com) is dynamic and fun. The technology and thought leadership is on the front line of changing how we continue to communicate as brands and companies with our clients, vendors and partners. I could not be more excited about the world of opportunities that are laid at my feet.

The Gators - yep, I know it...a lot of you will be like "WTF? his University? the sports?, really Gil!!!" and I say YES! really! Whether we are winning or losing, and for a long time now it has been winning, I really do feel pride and joy and a connection to my present as well as my past through the Florida Gators. Partly its the sports but more it is the personal connection, that stirring inside, whether I am at the game or sitting by myself on the couch. For 3+ hours each Saturday this Fall I have found the ability to get away from the issues of everyday life and enjoy kids coming together for one common goal. Seeing them overcome adversity and lofty expectations has motivated me at a very core level.

My body - I am thankful that it is still in tact! I am lighter (though the last 6 weeks have been bad) than I have been in a long time. I am enjoying running, spinning/biking and working out again. Two weeks ago I walked about 13 miles in Manhattan in 2 days and it felt great! After two major knee reconstructions, countless broken bones and sprains over the years this is a pretty nice feat for me :-)

Last on this short list, but never least, are you, my friends - I don't need to name you by name for you to know how you have touched my life, not just this year but every year. You have pushed me to go farther, be stronger, be better and enjoy more than ever before. Whether it is 60 minutes next to me on a spin bike, across from me at lunch during the week, sharing emails and texts throughout the day, letting me in your home and hearts during trips, it is YOU my friends that make my life more full than the average person deserves to have. Time, distance and circumstance have never been obstacles for me when it comes to my friends. I love you all and the time we have been able to spend together. The life lessons you have taught me I share with the girls and a piece of each of you is carried in my heart.

YOU are my inner strength, my peace after a long day. I close my eyes and see my future and embrace all of life's possibilities.