A self-imposed MEME By Jonathan, Ms. Bird’s First Grade Class

If you know even a tiny bit about me, then it’s blatantly freakin’ obvious what I’m thankful for, er, who, that is! Parker An Rhys Rosenberg, of course! There are truly no words to describe the total and complete joy of his presence in my life.

I am thankful that I do not think my son owes me anything, or ever will – because I’ve read things by people who feel entitled to children (biological or adopted), or who think their children owe them a giant casserole of gratitude, and those people sound greedy and immature and too self-centered to be parents. Certainly I want my kids to appreciate me and things I might do for them, but there is a difference between appreciating your parents and feeling as if you are beholden to them or as if you owe them something.

I am thankful for Vietnam. Not only was my son born there, which in and of itself has created an unbreakable bond between myself and the country, but I am thankful that I got to visit and get to know Vietnam, even on a very rudimentary basis. The country and the people have impacted my life in many ways, all of which I am grateful for. I am thankful for my son’s Vietnamese parents. Not only did they create a beautiful child, but they have unknowingly given me something priceless. I hope they are well, and I hope that someday they will know that Parker An is loved immensely and well cared for.

I am also thankful for all of my family, who are truly the most loving and supportive people any person could ever hope to surround themselves with. My friends are all great people whom I am glad to have in my life.

Jaden and Devin – they have shown me how my helping to build someone else’s family is a great joy and privilege – and for making my heart happy every time I think of them. My dog, Lexi, who even when she is being a pain in the ass, is still a valued companion.

All my stuff – which becomes increasingly unimportant every day that goes by. I am thankful that I have all the basic necessities of life, and much beyond – I know there are a great many people who struggle just to survive, who are caught in terrible conflicts, who are enslaved, who have little to be thankful for, beyond their own lives.

Me, yes I am thankful for myself – I mean none of this would mean anything to me if I had never existed – and, while I could write a book on the things I’d like to change about myself, generally I am happy with who I am, how I think, my morals and principles, and how I treat others.

I am thankful that I live in a country that is almost always moving forward (even if clumsily and haphazardly at times), even when led by such a misguided man as our current President. I am thankful that I live in a country where I do not have to worry about my son being sold in sex slavery or enslaved in a factory at 4 years old, working for hours on end.

I am so happy that over the last 18 months I have met and befriended some amazing people in the world of Vietnam adoptions – I have learned so much from you all, and enjoyed your virtual company.

I am thankful for science, the amazing process of discovery that has opened our world’s secrets for me to see, learn, and understand.

Well, as with most anyone, I could make a list that keeps on going…but, I will stop here.