Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and even though I am in a country where that means about as much as Ramadan does in the US I am still reminded of all that I have to give thanks for. Living here in Ecuador, with far less luxurious conditions than my WA home, has helped hammer home the basic things in life that I feel grateful for and I feel compelled to list them. OK, a few aren’t that basic but I really enjoy them☺ In no real order…
- Caring relationships
- Lots of healthy food
- Rain-proof shelter and warmth
- Hot shower with soap
- Fast internet:)
- Time to exercise
- Health care access (+ dental)
- Riding bikes
- Feeling “safe” (present and future)
- Adequate sleep
- Learning/education
- Toilets (that work)
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Clean water
- Being clothed
- Opportunity
Now, how many of these do the “bottom billion” of our world also enjoy? Caring relationships can be had, maybe some shelter, some clothes, but that’s about it, at best. My list isn’t too extravagant; does it seem wrong to anyone else that so many have so little? That should be an easy question, I hope. What isn't so easy to answer is what are YOU going to do about it?
Happy Thanksgiving
A place to keep up on my life and thoughts during my 10 months in Ecuador.
Remember to click on pics to see them enlarged!
3 comments:
Mike,
That is sort of my perspective on Thanksgiving this year! I am thankful to have you as a friend and support system, especially while I am abroad.
Kelsey
Hi Mike,
this is maggie fick, writing to you from Niger. Glorya told me about your blog, it is awesome! I miss biking too, but I agree with you completely that there are many thanks to be given when visiting wonderful places with inspiring people like ecuador or niger. beaucoup du courage/keep up the great work! in case you are interesting, my blog is maggieauniger.blogspot.com hope to be in touch soon!
vote democrat and work for those who are willing to put themselves out there to have the USA stand for generosity!! keep doing my conversations between Israelis and Palestinians...holding the spirit of....if we get a chance to see and hear and feel the humanity of the "other" we will/can make more generous and peaceful choices in our lives. Thanks for holding our feet to the fire Michael, especially mine. Basilia (Babs)
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