During this holiday season, I want to take a moment to reflect on what I am thankful for. I hope everyone finds the time and space to do the same.
First, I am thankful for my wife. She carries our first child and has shown so much strength and grit during the last 38 weeks. I thank her for sharing a spiritual practice and caring for my well-being. I look forward to our continued partnership.
I am also thankful for my family. As I mature, family support for my personal decisions allows me to take bold steps in this world. Having family to discuss life’s challenges also serves my goals. Finally, family shapes my path and helps to define what I will ultimately leave behind.
I am also thankful to be a benefactor of public education. State universities like UC Davis, Virginia Tech and Universiy of Maryland provide an environment for students to discuss, debate and solve problems. I gain so much from open information, scientific experience and a space to learn. I hope to give back to the community that supports me.
Finally, the holiday season in a time to celebrate food. I am thankful to all farmers and ranchers who devote themselves to growing plants and animals to sustain us. I am grateful for the diverse pallet of food I have to choose from on this holiday and every other day of the year.
I follow a strong #thankafarmer campaign on Twitter. Advocates for agriculture who organize and promote “Thank a Farmer” including @mpaynknoper, @JeffFowle, @RayLinDairy, @brendawrites, @JPLovesCotoon and others inspired my expression of gratitude this holiday season.
Thank you all and be thankful.
