Giving Thanks

Although it's a trite observation, spending Thanksgiving here made me freshly aware of what I take for granted in the US. Of course, every year I'm thankful for all the obvious things like family, friends, the opportunity for meaningful work, groomed ski trails, and parks. However, living here for these few weeks has caused me to add other things to my list: air that is safe to breathe, water that is safe to drink, building codes, literacy, pedestrian crosswalks, cloth napkins, spices, soap and toilet paper in bathrooms, smoked salmon, and architecture.

That list of things I miss comes easily to mind; however, living here is not just about missing things. Some things I have here are hard to find in the US. The one most often in my mind is awareness of my privilege. I am reminded of it when I see the children and elderly taking the garbage I leave in the alley, or the homeless person who sneaked into the stairwell of my apartment building to sleep. I feel it because I pay next to nothing for luxury and comfort that few here can afford, because I live extravagantly on a few dollars a day, and because almost anything connected to the US is viewed with such frank admiration. Although I can't say I'll miss these daily reminders when I go back, I can say I'm thankful for the perspective.

(Photo courtesy of E. Beavers: Terelj Park)