11/25 - A Thanksgiving Message

My grandfather used to say “I’ve got a good roof over my head, a good air conditioner, good food to eat, and a good truck to take me where I want to go when I want to go there.” These are certainly things to be thankful for but on this day I am not only thankful for these but for many other things as well.
I am thankful to live in America. In America, where we are free to pursue and act on our beliefs without persecution. In America where blessings abound. I am always amazed to see such variety at the grocery store. In America, where we have opportunity to participate in the selection of our government representatives and over time make corrections to the course of the country. In America where with hard work and persistence we have opportunity to exceed beyond our dreams and ambitions.

I am thankful for the company I work for Draper Laboratory. Draper is a collection of exceptional people who are highly motivated and of high moral character. I have achieved much more than I have ever expected as I stand on the shoulders of giants. Draper has afforded me the insurance necessary to get me through my latest challenge with liver cancer and has been nothing but helpful and supportive.

I am thankful for family and friends. When you are looking at an illness that may be life ending all the accumulation of material things has no value. It is certainly the people who you have touched and have touched you that matter. The church family, neighbors, friends, and family that have shown support for me I hold as blessings from God. I have no regret for my life except that I could have been a better friend, neighbor, supporter, father, son, or servant.

I am thankful to God for providing me the comfort in knowing that no matter what happens it is his plan for me to dwell with him in heaven.

For this Thanksgiving and for all the days of your life, cling closely to friends and family and be ever mindful of where our blessing come from. A good roof, good air conditioner, good food, good truck, …good friends, family, church family, country, work. All blessings from God.