In today’s calamitous age, with challenges impossible to imagine a year ago, it’s helpful to find things to be grateful for. 

I deeply appreciate all the people who mentored me, who alternately praised and pushed me, beginning with Jack Penland, the ultra talented news director at KCLS Radio in Flagstaff, Arizona, who taught me how to finish a story and get it on the air, fast.  

And I’m grateful to have worked at Microsoft during a time of dizzying growth when anyone, even an A-dash, could pour an idea into a willing ear and get a respectful audience, even if “not going to happen” came shortly afterward. 

I’m lucky indeed to have worked with people who gave spot-on relevant feedback and who welcomed it in return. I’ve since learned, not everyone wants to hear your constructive feedback. Even fewer people are willing to give it.  Silence substitutes for candor.   

And yet, I don’t know a single person who wouldn’t rather hear your honest opinion. 

But above all, I’m grateful for the astonishing health care workers who are caring for us during these terrifying times. You doctors, nurses, orderlies, janitors, CNAs, volunteers, thank you. You do the impossible every day.

No one holds a candle to you.