Being Thankful

I was sitting at my gate in Atlanta’s Hartsfield–Jackson International Airport doing some people watchin’. Atlanta’s airport is a busy place. As I watched the folks around me, I began to notice those who worked in the airport.

There were some men from a construction company, janitorial staff, a shopkeeper, and gate agents. The following thought came to me: I was with a large group of guys who had spent the weekend attending an away football game. We went to the BYU game against Mississippi State. I’m not sure why, but our hotel was in Birmingham, AL — over a two-hour drive.

On the return trip to our hotel, someone discovered that Alabama had a home game that same night. Needless to say, we bought tickets. I also experienced some of the best barbecue I have ever tasted.

It was a great weekend, full of memories.

As I sat in the airport in Atlanta, I realized that — directly and indirectly — all of these folks had a hand in the memories I had spent the weekend creating. Without them, the airport would cease to function.

The sad thing is that many people don’t realize what impact they have on the lives of the people around them. For example, does the person emptying the garbage cans or cleaning the restrooms create a clean environment that makes my time in the airport more enjoyable? Absolutely.

I was in Disneyland with some family and friends. We had given our kids a trip there. One early morning, while entering the park, I found myself talking with two cast members for several minutes. I had asked them about working on Christmas. As they left, I thought about how grateful I was that they were willing to work Christmas so my family and friends could make memories we have carried with us ever since.

These are just a couple of examples of people living their lives, yet creating environments where we can enjoy wonderful memories.

Be thankful for the people around you!