This Thanksgiving

I'm thankful for the reminder today that it's easy for us to forget what is really important in our lives. It's so easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of work, responsibilities and constantly striving to do all the things that we think other people want us to do.

I got news for us all. A lot of what we strive for is just bull$5it. And we take a lot of things for granted without realizing how important and meaningful they are.

Money? Well you can't take it with you.

Fame? Only lasts for awhile. 

How about the sounds of birds singing? When was the last time you really stopped and listened to them. How about the feel and touch of a loving and warm hand from a companion. Did you look into their eyes? I mean, really look? Really feel the moment?

I died almost 3 years ago. 

Yes! 

My body had actually reached a state where it could not sustain itself any longer. My heart had stopped. My brain was starving for the oxygen it needed. I had literally lost the battle for my life. It was only through the quick external actions of others performing CPR and using defibrillator paddles that I was revived. The realization of what happened is very sobering.

The priorities in my life are now a little different. 

Life is pretty amazing. It's easy to forget that.

There is this wonderful woman in my life. She is responsible for some of that CPR I previously mentioned. We have shared almost 35 years together. We have two fantastic children. We are lucky to have a decent home. There's lots to be very thankful for. And the world surrounding us, even with all of the problems there are, is full of beauty and wonder.

So, this Thanksgiving, when you are with your families, I invite you to make that hug with your relative last a little longer. Look a little deeper into someone's eyes. Take an extra moment to listen to a bird sing. Think about the things (like Jayhawk basketball) that are truly meaningful to you.

And Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Carpe Diem, my good friends.