Many thanks to the people in my life

Everybody has problems in their lives. I know I do.

But when you dedicate a few moments to taking stock of what you have, you realize that there’s plenty to be thankful for, even when it may not seem like it.

I hit a few rough patches these last couple of months.

There were a few things that just weren’t going the way I wanted them to. Hell, some of them still aren’t. Those who know me can recall lengthy conversations over the phone or in person that led to much soul-searching and recovery.

It was during one of these conversations that I realized just how much I had to be thankful for.

Yes, there are certain material things for which I’m giving thanks today: a roof over my head, warm bed and full stomach to name a few. But when I look past the material and focus on the people in my life, I feel absolutely spoiled.

How many friends had sprung to the occasion and offered their counsel and companionship when I needed it most? Too many to count.

How excited was my family to see me earlier that week, when I had already visited twice in the three weeks preceding? Ecstatic.

So I want to take just a moment to express my neverending thanks to the people who I can’t imagine my life without.

To my family: my mother, sisters, nephews and nieces. You mean the world to me and you take every opportunity to tell me the same. I’m doing my best to make you proud.

To my cross-country friends: Patrick, Drew and Martin. We’re separated by state lines, mountains and oceans, but when it comes to what matters, you’re never too far away.

To Mario, Emily, Jason, Jessica and the rest of you Eugenians: thanks for keeping life fun and interesting. I couldn’t ask for better friends with whom to crash parties or play Donkey Kong until 1 a.m.

To my friends in McMinnville and Portland: Carmen, Katy, Rikki and Hannah. There aren’t too many people who help bring out the real me better, whether it’s the goofy prankster, ridiculous sidekick or disgruntled journalist.

To my staff at The Torch. Andy and Alan, you guys never give me less than 100% and you’ve been with me since the day I was fired (long story for another post.) To my other editors and reporters: Brett, Amanda, Javier, Eugene, Hannah and Alando: I can’t imagine putting this rag together without each and every one of you.

To my advisers: Frank and Dorothy. Thanks for keeping me grounded when I have my head in the clouds and reminding me that we’re doing good work each and every day: We’re doing journalism.

And last, but not least: To my countless friends, readers and supporters. I wouldn’t be where I am if you didn’t take time out of your busy day to read my words.

Thank you all.