This weekend is Thanksgiving in Canada. I have a lot to be thankful for. I have a good life: my family are safe and well. This year, I now have this research project that I love. I am grateful to have such a great team. The best part about being a university professor is working with young scientists like Taren, Shaelyn and Ryan. They open my eyes to new things and fresh perspectives. They bring life and fun to the lab.
Starting this project in a pandemic, when our lab was shut down, seemed like a crazy thing to do. However, it has worked out for the best. We spent more time in pre-planning than usual, but we hit the ground running when the lab reopened. I am delighted at how much we have achieved.
Of course, our work has good days and bad days. Science research is like being on a rollercoaster. There are big ups and downs. However, every failed experiment leads to new understanding. Today I realised that Thursday's failed experiment has actually taught us something amazing . So disappontment has turned into happiness and I am grateful!
I hope all of you have something in your lives to be thankful for. No matter where you are in the world, we invite you to celebrate Canadian Thankgiving with us. There is no nicer way to spend time on a weekend than relaxing with coffee and a slice of pumpkin pie while counting your blessings.
Maya Angelou: “Be present in all things and thankful for all things.”