We are at the end of another year as the inevitable passage of the invented construct of time barrels on. At times, it can be very difficult to set aside one’s ruminations and neuroticism and simply acknowledge all of the things that we can be thankful for. This holiday season, here are the things that I am thankful for:
1. Comedy
This year I finally decided to try stand up and I have been going onstage several times per week since January. Stand up is an art form that I appreciate for its bravery and honesty. Plus, I am willing to talk about almost anything onstage, including my relationship (which is not the best) and my family background (also not the best). In 2015, my goals include performing at more venues and entering submissions for comedy festivals.
2. Film
This year brought us some interesting films, although I would not say this was a landmark year for movies. Some of the films that were highlights in 2014 were Chef, The Skeleton Twins, Fury, Interstellar, Whiplash, and what I would say was the best movie of the summer, the little-seen Tom Cruise action movie Edge of Tomorrow.
3. Bacon and Egg Bagel Sandwiches
There is little more heavenly on earth than a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. Put that on an asiago bagel, and you will be making love to that thing with your mouth. In 2015, I plan on cutting back on these pieces of heaven.
4. Podcasts
I recently started listening to podcasts at work and they can be a great way to make yourself feel like you are not totally slaving away for someone else. Some of my favorites are: The Mental Illness Happy Hour hosted by Paul Gilmartin, which should be required listening for any adult wanting to improve themselves or discuss the battles in their heads; Lady to Lady, hosted by LA comics Tess Barker, Barbara Gray, and Brandie Posey, which features a guest and hilarious discussion about all things lady-related; Serial, the hit Sarah Koenig-hosted podcast discussing the murder of 18-year-old Hae Min Lee in Baltimore in 1999 and the murder conviction of her ex-boyfriend Adnan Syed; Girl on Guy hosted by Aisha Tyler and discussing all things pop culture, comedy, life, and stuff guys dig. If I had to choose one, it would be The Mental Illness Happy Hour.
5. Employment
We all hate our jobs at some point or another, but being steadily employed for a long period of time is something that we should be thankful for in this volatile world. Many people also live in poverty, and those of us who have the fortune of being able to work and support ourselves need to think of this when we complain about silly things like someone getting our coffee order wrong.
Fixed Air 