every year around thanksgiving i take some time to look back and take stock of what i am thankful for. as much as i try to be present throughout the year to this, it’s so easy to get distracted, but this is the time of year when it really sinks in. this year in particular i have a lot to be thankful for:

i’m home! it took me a lot of years to find my way back to memphis, but now that i’m here, there really is nowhere else i want to be. it is so nice to feel at home after so many wayward years, and i am so thankful for everything this city has given and continues to give me.

i have an awesome job. i know i’ve only been working at BRIDGES for three weeks, but i already feel like i have found my place. it has been a great organization to work for thus far, and i am looking forward to being there for a long time to come.

i have traveled to some amazing places this year. i have been incredibly lucky with my travel opportunities this year. i finally made it to pondicherry; i spent 3 weeks traveling in malaysia and cambodia; i made two visits to bombay; i got to explore the himalayan foothills in mussoorie; and since being back in the states i’ve been to new york, the berkshires, knoxville, chattanooga, fayetteville, and nashville twice. i know how lucky i am to have the opportunity to see so many awesome places, and i am thankful every day for the privilege to wander the world.

i have the best family and friends. they have been there for me through thick and thin, and their support has never wavered. they have been patient with me while i’ve wandered my way from place to place, and they have always made sure i had a home wherever i was. i am so, so thankful for the support systems i have in my life and for the joy they bring me each and every day.

i have food, water, shelter, and clothing. it really comes down to these four basic things, and i am thankful that i am lucky enough to know i will have these for many years to come.

happy belated thanksgiving! what are you thankful for this year?

xx