In the States, Thanksgiving has come and gone. A time to come together with family, to look back at everything you have, to be grateful for not only what you have, but for who you have in your life.

We made a drastic change this year, having moved from Japan back to the U.S. It’s been a steady transition readjusting to life in the States. Understandably there are several things I continue to miss, and I’m not sure I’ll ever be completely satisfied with life here. Although, the same could be said had we chosen to stay in Japan.

I miss the conveniences of Japan. The public transportation, the stores, the services.
I miss living in the countryside. The nature, the quiet, the peace to be able to hear my thoughts.
I miss Japanese food. Quality ramen is particularly hard to find, and I find sushi prices ridiculous here.
I miss the friends I made. Some of these friends I believe are friends for life, even if we are an ocean apart.

I understand that even if I miss these things, it does me no good to sit and feel sad about not having them. It’s more productive instead to be grateful that I had the experiences I did, and look towards what I have now.

I’m thankful to have quality American food again. Having an In-N-Out within driving distance does a lot to make you forget about your troubles.
I’m thankful for the opportunities I have now. The scariest thing about moving back was the uncertainty of the job market. I’m grateful that I can now see several paths in front of me.
I’m thankful to be able to see my family and friends in the States more regularly. This was one of the major reasons for returning, and it continues to be a solid reminder as to why it was the correct decision.
I’m thankful for my wife, who has stood by my side throughout our lives in Japan, and continues to help me see clearly when I’m lost.

Much like motivation, gratitude for one’s life is not a given. Its fire, once lit, does not sustain itself. It must constantly be fueled, strengthened, even and especially when times are at its toughest.

For all that I’ve given up, I’ve gained equally as much if not more. In fact, I plan to continue improving upon what I’ve gained in the coming years, thankful for the opportunity to do so.