Am I grateful? I mean, really grateful?

We have reached another Thanksgiving. This is the time of year when we are expected to be thankful for all the things in our lives. For our families. For the friends we have. For another year. For the food we eat.

Every year I flippantly say, “I am grateful for this and that and those and these.” But am I grateful? Am I really grateful?

There are many days when I am the crankiest guy you might come into contact with.
I love my children to death, but sometimes they can push my buttons unlike anybody else on the face of this planet.
I have high expectations from and low tolerance for disappointment by people in my life.

Could I possibly be grateful?

I am grateful for all the good things I have. But how grateful am I for all these gifts in my life? After much thought I realized I wanted to take a look at some of the gifts I may take for granted.

I was and I am always grateful that, other than me, nobody else got injured in a one car drunk driving accident I caused 23 years ago. I was so grateful at the time, I swore off alcohol for life. Not another drink since.
I am grateful for almost 14 years smoke free. Woo Hoo!!!
I am grateful for closing a business I did not enjoy going to everyday. Any day.
I am grateful for being able to start a new business that is allowing me to express some of my passions. A business I am falling in love with.
I am grateful for the friends, family, coaches and mentors that have encouraged me in my new business venture.
I am grateful for having written and published a  a bestselling book.
I am grateful that I usually drive the speed limit now, which cuts down on unnecessary anxiety.
I am grateful for all the wonderful friends I have made since moving to North Carolina.
I am grateful for all the wonderful business connections I have made since moving to North Carolina.
I am grateful for a God that strengthens me daily and grows me in ways I would never be able to grow on my own.

Okay. I guess I’m grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving, Everybody!!!!