So I haven't really been able to celebrate any holidays in the true or traditional style for the past few years. When I was younger, it sucked, but now not so much. I understand what it's all about, and just because I can't participate as much as I'd like to, it's no reason to get upset. I've lived with my dad since 1998. He grew up in a very strict religious environment. He was, for all of his childhood, a Jehovah's Witnesses. While I don't want to get into a religious debate/discussion, I do want to point out how my father was not able to really be a kid due to his religious upbringing. Later on he figured out that forcing somebody into a religion really can put a bad taste in that person's mouth for any religion. I'm thankful that he realized this well before he decided to have kids.
However, he never really "got" the holiday thing. I mean, he understands it, but because his parents never celebrated any holiday or birthdays, ever, they aren't really a big deal to him. Not that they should be a big deal to anybody, but they are what they are for a reason. It's a time to just be happy when you get right down to it. It may seem kind of odd that we have to set specific days of the year where we all can try to be as happy as possible together, yet the world is an odd place at times. Thanksgiving, as with most holidays, has an original meaning and purpose that we sometimes lose sight of when there's a big freakin' turkey on the table.
Thankfully (pun completely intended), it is in the name. The day to give thanks. To look back on your life thus far and appreciate all the things, big or small, that truly made your life better. Family, friends, moments, events, and yes even religion all seem to be at the top of the list with most people. Right under those are the small things. After all, it takes a lot of little things to make something big. The little things that we tend to forget about in our day to day lives, but when we look back on it, we really will never forget. In a way, not being able to "go all out" for the holidays is a blessing. I have more time and focus on the little things.
So the whole point of this note is that I want to share what I'm thankful for. Sure there won't be any Thanksgiving dinner tonight other than some microwavable something or other, and I won't be able to visit any family members or anything like that. But I really am happy. I am so lucky to have what I have. And I'm not even talking about materialistic things. I'm talking about the opportunities, and the fairly worry free lifestyle I am able to live everyday. I am an optimist, because it's awesome. While there is more than enough bad in the world, that truly makes the smallest amount of good, that much more potent. Again, the little things. Children, the most innocent and happy and beautiful things on Earth, and I am able to see the wonder and amazement in their eyes quite often.
So I guess if you consider Walt Disney World admission to be materialistic, then yes, I'm thankful something of material value. But material value is not the only value it posses. Not by a long shot. Walt Disney World I consider to be man made Wonder. I am very thankful to be so close to such an amazing place with such amazing people. And to be able to come and go as I please. I don't know of anything that's greater. That place has changed my life and continues to do so, every time I go. Not only do I get to meet other guests and help their trip to be more "magical" with my tips from being a "regular", but I get to meet and befriend some amazing cast members. It takes people to make the magic. People who make it very well. Thank you all for what you do day after day. I know this was a rather long-winded note, but I really am thankful for you guys, and this is the day to give thanks.
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