Gratitude

Yesterday marked the one year anniversary of the 'armpit incident'. For those that are aware of the circumstances surrounding that day, needless to say, we are all very relieved that everything was OK. (Picture a young boy sliding down a tree limb and having a branch catch under his arm and tear a nice lasceration through the flesh - I mean all the way through - I'll spare you the photos)

Unfortunately, too often it takes incidents like that to place life in the proper perspective. A few millimeters made all the difference between an expensive ride in an ambulance, what must have been very painful for him to endure, a dad who didn't faint, the irritation of stitches, and doctor bills vs. something much much worse.

I know that I don't express my gratitude enough and I wanted to work on. I am incredibly grateful that he pulled through. He is a remarkable young man - one that I am very proud of and happy to call my son. I think of the bravery with which he faced things last year and I don't know how he did it.

I also think of my other children. They are happy, enjoyable, creative, and fun in their own right. I am amazed by their energy, brilliance, and pleasant natures.

And of course my amazing wife. The challenges and obstacles that she endures to welcome a new baby in our home make any of my efforts look small in comparison. What a trooper!

So today, as I reflect back upon last year when my son got a 'new armpit', I am incredibly grateful.