It is only during the holiday season that I feel a few tinges of homesickness. My childhood memories of Thanksgiving are filled with happiness. Separated from my family, I long for those days of idyllic remembrances. They probably were not as idyllic as I suppose, coming from a family where I am the baby of four boys. My mother, strong and patient as she was, was often irate over our youthful rambunctiousness. I remember that as well, though the years since her passing have caused it to fade a bit. Still, the joy of this season remains and I wish to share my gratitude. This expression, while heartfelt, is often left by me unspoken.

Therefore, I am especially grateful for:

My family. Despite their flaws, they have contributed greatly to my identity and sense of self. They have had many ups and downs this year, something I suspect that will continue into the future. As they supported me during my times of difficulty, I wish to be a pillar for them as well even though they are so far away.

My many friends. I think of you more than you might suppose. Time and distance may separate us, but I love and wish you all the best.

My job. I enjoy teaching although I remain skeptical that I have any talent for it.

My students. They are some of the most hard-working people I have met.

My Mother. The word love seems too mundane for the feelings that I have, nor does it fully capture the totality of my loss. Yet until such a time that English creates a word capable of capturing the intensity of my heart, I am left with only this: Maman, I love and miss you.

Finally, my Lord. Without the suffering and death of the most innocent, my desired eternal reward would be denied purely on the basis of my accumulated mistakes. However, I am able to gain both immortality by His resurrection and eternal life through His encompassing grace. Gratitude, in addition to love, seems too insufficient for expressing this.