Just last night the ECI Stockholm staff, their families, and a few friends gathered at Alan's home for Thanksgiving. Though we are in Sweden, we have all had sufficient exposure to this US holiday to appreciate its central themes of family, friendship, and gratitude. Buffeted from the cold and dark night by warm company and delicious food, we enjoyed conversation, laughter, and the occasional crying of one of Alan's daughters or one of my sons.

These Thanksgiving festivities put me in a contemplative mood and, on the bus ride home, I began to think about the many things in my life for which I am grateful. I started, of course, with the fact that my young family and I had made it across the Atlantic Ocean safely and that my mother has joined us for a few weeks. We are all grateful to have this opportunity of living in a new land among hospitable people. I am especially grateful for having Alan, Lisa, and Leah as supportive and fun colleagues in our mission to promote the Earth Charter and bring about a better world.

More specifically, I am grateful for the opportunity to correspond with all of you, the members of the ECYI. You are found all around the world and I marvel at your numerous accomplishments and visions for the future. I am grateful to be surrounded by the hope that you exude and I aspire to support you in your endeavors.

I turn to you, now, and ask: “What are your gratitudes?” I look forward to reading your comments.

Peace,
Dominic