I can’t say if it was a dark and stormy night when I was born at 10:35 PM on Sunday, August 4, 1974. First, I was too busy getting born at the time. Second, the Internet has failed me on my search.
Regardless, as I write this post exactly 50 years later, I am thankful for the first 50 years of my life.
I am thankful to my parents for having me, to my grandparents for raising me, to my family for helping shape me into the person I am.
I am thankful to the many friends and acquaintances I’ve known and continue to know throughout my life for making my life brighter.
I am thankful to my found drum corps families of the Glassmen, Empire Statesmen, and Bluecoats, as well as the people I’ve come to know through the marching arts. You all inspire me to be the best person I can be because I see you all doing the same.
Most of all, I am thankful for my wife Rachel. Over 20 years ago, I found somebody I wanted to spend the rest of our lives together with. I still feel that way and I love supporting you on everything you do while you support me in everything I do. You make me want to live another 50 years and more, all with you.
I think William T. Riker said it best in Star Trek: Generations when Captain Picard stated that we’re only mortal. “Speak for yourself, sir. I intend to live forever.”
