Poker can be frustrating, but for any of us who are in a situation to play poker at all, we have a lot to be thankful for. Poker has given me the flexibility to live a lifestyle that many don’t achieve until later in life, has introduced me to an interesting and unique network of friends and acquaintances I’d have never met otherwise, encouraged me to travel around the world and expand my horizons, and reinforced an individualistic mindset. All of these have been beneficial to me in business and life in general.

It’s easy to get a little down when the cards aren’t falling your way, but a little broader perspective is due every now and then. What better time than Thanksgiving to take a step back and be appreciative for the life we have and the opportunities that are available to us?

Thanksgiving Day was pretty low key for me, but very pleasant. The first part of the day was spent with four generations of family around a very nice meal and even better company. Later in the evening, I was able to get in an hour of pickup basketball and then jump into a card game. I got to play a few hours of shorthanded poker with a handful of people whose company I always enjoy. Family, friends, exercise, and poker: a pretty solid day in my book.

During my downtime and drive time throughout the day, it was natural to be a bit reflective about where I am in life, where I have been, and where I am headed. Poker has been such a big part of my life that almost any reflection has to include the game and the role it has played on my life as a whole. I can’t express enough how appreciative I am for the game and the community of people, locally and globally, that have made it such a wonderful and positive experience for me.

Stumbling into poker, both as a player and on the business side of the industry, has most assuredly changed the trajectory of my life and career. Where might I be now had I not taken that first trip to LA to cover the tournament at the Bicycle Casino in August 2006? Who knows? But, I do know that I am very happy where I am today and owe a good bit of that to the game of poker and the people in and around the game who have helped me along the way.

My goal is to remember my reflections and appreciativeness that I feel today the next time I get frustrated with the game, hit a downswing, or am irritated by someone I am playing against. For me, playing my best comes more effortlessly when I am in a calm and positive mindset, not to mention it making sessions more enjoyable for me and also helping create an environment that should be more fun for the others in the game as well.

Thanks to everyone in the poker community for being a part of the game and helping to build it to where it is today. Enjoy your next session!

Court Harrington has worked on the business side of the poker industry in roles including tournament reporting for PocketFives, radio hosting for PokerRoad Radio, coaching for the WSOP Academy and privately, and a variety of behind-the-scenes responsibilities for poker media businesses. He also plays in cash games and tournaments. Harrington is currently doing consulting work and exploring business opportunities outside of the poker industry. You can contact him at Court@CourtHarrington.com.

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