Giving Thanks For Being Alive

I’m not a huge fan of holidays, mainly for selfish reasons, but they’re my reasons and that’s what counts. I spend many holidays alone, locked in a room, writing or listening to music, and I’m perfectly happy that way. I don’t need specific days to feel happy, thankful, etc. Every day you wake up should be reason enough.

With that said, here’s what I’m thankful for…not only today, but every day:

I’m thankful I had 14 years with my father (1947-1994)…not angry that I didn’t have the last 22.

I’m thankful I had 33 years with my mother (1951-2013)…not angry that I lost the coolest person alive.

I’m thankful I had a long and happy friendship with my partner in crime, Nick Smith (1978-2016)…not angry about all of those late-night poker games that kept me from going to work.

I’m thankful for everyone in my family for making my childhood memorable: Uncle Sonny (1944-2013), Pop Motz (1907-1994), Nana Motz (1913-2014), Pop Ellis (1924-2012), Nana Ellis (1926-2013), stepfather Randy (1954-2014).

I’m thankful that my muse isn’t quite the alcoholic I am…and has kicked me in the ass enough times to actually publish a novel…which has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember.

I’m thankful that I had such an excellent time playing in rock bands for 20 years with some of the coolest people alive! From December Falling, to Millennium, to Equinox, Holly@Last, Guilty By Choice…some of the best times of my life were up on stage!

I’m thankful I’m still alive, which is probably a miracle in and of itself.

I’m happy for my close circle of friends, a small circle, but a quality one. My best friend Joe and I have weathered some serious shit over the last 25+ years…and I can still drink him under the table