This week, I am participating in a tradition that goes back about 13 years in my history. Every year at about this time, I am asked by a teacher, relative or friend what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving. The traditional answers usually spew from my mouth-family, friends, shelter, water, food, smoke detectors, thermoses, etc. But this time, I dug a little deeper and compiled a list of things that I am really grateful to have this year.
In less than a day, America will be able to watch Jerry, George, Elaine and Kramer whenever they want, re-mastered in digital quality and without the power and majesty of TiVo. Yes, the first thing I am thankful for is \Seinfeld ""on DVD.
""Seinfeld"" is an institution in pop culture. It is a testament to the American Ideal that we can make something out of nothing. The scripts and scenarios that played out every Thursday were situations we've all been through, but funnier. Plus it gave everyone something to talk about and impersonate for the entire weekend. At one point it seemed like you weren't cool if you couldn't do a decent impression of the Soup Nazi or discuss the merits of Festivus. Thank you, ""Seinfeld,"" for proving to America that good television is not an oxymoron.
This Thanksgiving, I am also thankful for moped riders. A select group of them have such disregard for the rules of the road, pedestrians and bicyclists. It's hilarious and I can't help but laugh. Without these disgruntled young people, many a winter day would blend together. But now I can distinguish Wednesday from Thursday by how many times I see a moped rider flip the bird to bus drivers and motorists. The fun never stops with you guys, and I have to say that you make me smile, and make my commute to class a laugh riot.
Where would my list be without the Badger football team? You gave me something to believe in this year. Your 1-0 mantra inspired me to go 1-0 on my homework, 1-0 on my huge sandwich and 1-0 on cleaning my room. I have been inspired to tackle things head on, do everything with a never-say-die mentality. I don't mind the not-so-hot days, because I know that everybody has them. In the scheme of things, your determination to win and your ability to do so outshined all of the negative moments you may have had. I am thankful for the football Badgers, for giving us all something to look forward to.
And finally, I am thankful for the election. It may be long gone now and, despite the outcome, I am so thankful it occurred. To see millions and millions of people stand up for what they believe in and cast a vote was motivating. Hopefully, people can ride this wave of pro-activity and leave apathy and ignorance behind.
I hope that this year, you participate in this introspective, first-grade-era activity. Finding out what makes you happy, and thanking those people or things that do it for you really brightens up your day, and theirs too. To all of you, a safe trip home, or at least a great four-day weekend and a happy Thanksgiving.
