Be thankful.

It turns out the Texas trip was desperately needed. I think sometimes we all need a reminder of how bad things can get before we realize how good we actually have it. Not only do I have a whole new appreciation for my freedom in general, but also for good health. A two-fer if you will.

I've also gained a new appreciation for opportunity and support. My parents have went to every extent possible to provide me with countless opportunities. They always put us kids first and make sure we are taken care of well before thinking of themselves. When we visited the prison last week and saw that only about one hundred of the one thousand inmates had visitors it makes you think...Have they ever had anyone's support. Did their parents show up for parent teacher conferences, coach baseball teams or organize a local church youth group? Did they get shuttled from school to sporting event to friends to home every day, just to do it all over again the next? Did their parents work endless days and put theirselves out on the line to make something happen?

Think about those that care for and support you, and thank them. If it wasn't for them, who knows where we'd have ended up.