I am reading the book 'Tough Guy' by Bob Probert. 'Probie' was a hockey player with the Red Wings in the late 80s-early 90s--and then played with Chicago until he retired in 2002. He was an enforcer and averaged a fight every four games. He also was an alcoholic and drug addict. He drove his cars, motorcycles, and boats at illegal high speeds. He lived life on the edge, both on and off the ice. He died on 5 July 2010. He was 45 years old.
Probert was described as 'larger than life.' He gambled, partied, and caroused his life away. Basically, he put his friends, teammates, family, wife, and children through hell. And he enjoyed life on his own terms. This book is making me quite depressed. I was looking for a fun hockey read and I am coming away with the feeling that this was a life that was lost to excess. As I near the end of the book, while he is extremely honest about the things he did, I get the impression that he never understood that he did anything wrong. He probably had regrets for what he put others through, but like the puppy who pees on the living room rug, he just doesn't know WHY he's being scolded. After all, he was having FUN! Very sad.
And this leads to my 'Things to be Thankful For This Thanksgiving' moment. How could I ever NOT be thankful for my husband--a man who is stubborn as hell and not always easy to get along with, but also, the most giving, caring, good-natured, and gentle man I have ever known. Some people might call K dull and boring, but to me he is reliant and laid-back. Throughout our marriage, he has done his best to provide everything I have ever needed and most of what I have wanted. I never have had to worry about 'what is he doing' when he left the house--I trust him without any reservations. As I have said before, we met on the first day of kindergarten and were friends long before we 'got together'--and God knew that was the way it needed to be. I don't know if I could have appreciated K earlier in my life. As it is, I had too many moments in the passing years when I didn't always see what a good man it was my great fortune to have. I love him with all my heart--my mate for life. And I am truly thankful.
I do hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and remember to thank 'the powers-that-be,' God, the Universe, or whatever higher power you may believe in, for all of the things you have to be grateful for. That is what Thanksgiving is supposed to be all about.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, everyone!!!!!
Tough Guy
