What I'm Thankful For

Thursday, November 26, 1998

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. As is traditional on this day, I'm taking stock of the best things in my life, the things that I am truly thankful for.

The Republican Party

For those of you who know me, it might seem odd that I would be thankful for the opposition, but after everything that they have done during the last four years, I know that Democrats have never had better friends. Everytime Democrats have been in trouble, the Republicans have managed to grasp defeat from the jaws of victory. Remember the government shutdown? The emergency relief bill? Bob Dole? The Monica mess? When the GOP stands up for its "principles", the American people go running the other way. Now, with their recent leadership changes in the House and the much-hyped shift in power to the moderates, it might be that Republicans have finally discovered the right combination that will let them take advantage of their majorities in Congress and the President's problems. Don't bet on it.

Ken Starr

Given his obviously political agenda, perhaps it would have made more sense to simply lump him in with the Republicans. But what elected Republicans have not been able to accomplish legislatively, Ken Starr has been able to do on his own. No person has done more to bring popular support back to the President than Judge Starr. His recent acknowledgement before Congress that there is no plausible evidence of wrong-doing by the President or the First Lady in Whitewater, Travelgate, or Filegate only highlight the fact that he is now just grasping at straws. The people know this — why can't Starr figure it out?

Userland Frontier

Frontier is the one piece of software I don't think I could live without. Certainly I wouldn't be able to do some of the things I do without it. Frontier has made some great strides this year, and while the transitions have been not always trouble-free, I'm glad it's made it to where it is now. So to Dave, Doug, Brent, and all the rest, thanks for the great product, and keep up the good work!

Friends and Family

After all,this is what Thanksgiving is all about — a time to reflect on those who are closest to you, and why you value what they have given you. So to my parents, my sister and her family, and to all my friends, near and far, thank you for everything. While I'm spending this day alone, I feel like you are all here with me. And that's what I'm most thankful for.