Part of what brought that axiom home was my break-up and subsequent reconciliation with Jon, but a lot of it was also the trip to Berlin with my friend Christian. I didn't really talk about the end of the holiday on this blog and I will maintain that confidence out of respect for the relationship that we shared, but I will say that what happened - the choices I made and Christian's actions in response - taught me a valuable lesson about friendship. Because of these two incidents, I feel that I have to own up to myself in a way that really is new to me; I feel that I have to accept that I have made mistakes and I have to learn from them and, inevitably, I have to move on.
To that end, while the things I am thankful for this season are relatively rote, I have a new and active appreciation for them:
I am thankful for my family, who cheer me through my adventures and who support me through my misadventures.
with Sarah in Boston, 2011
I am thankful for Jon, whose enduring faith in me outlasts my own doubt in myself and whose love sustains my soul.
with Jon in London, 2010
I am thankful for my friends, who look past my insecurities to understand my heart and who create a home for me wherever they are.
with JHo and Stins in DC, 2008
And I am thankful to all of you, who follow me on this journey and who challenge me to be accountable and true.
May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and may you enjoy the peace that lives in active appreciation.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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