Over the weekend I celebrated my 30th birthday, safe in the comforts of my own home. I had originally planned on relaxing in southern Thailand this year, a place that I easily consider my second home. Through a series of events (some good and some bad), my travel plans were modified and I headed to Thailand in November instead. Had any number of minor details in my life changed I might not be here today.

I want to thank all of you who have called or written me about your concern. It is a strange feeling to see the events unfold on television, knowing that I have walked those very beaches several times.

I'm sure I know people among the dead or missing. I'm sure I've eaten food cooked by now missing beach vendors. I'm sure I've sat drinking a beer watching as one of the many recently drowned boat drivers came in at the end of their days.

Thailand will be forever changed in my mind. I will no longer be able to walk the beach with glee and innocent joy I once had. Instead, I will be forced to think of the death and despair that currently blankets the islands and coastal areas.

I have been to Phuket, Thailand.
I have been to Koh Phi Phi, Thailand.
I have been to Krabi, Thailand.
I have been to Langkawi, Malaysia.
I have been to Penang, Malaysia.

These, and many others like them, are among the worst effected areas hit by the tsunami that landed on my birthday. I am one year older, while countless thousands will never experience another day.

I cannot stay away -- I must make my way back to the places I cherish so much. To stay away would take away the little chance of living that many of these people have. People must return to the islands and they must do so with a full heart and an appreciation for what these people have experienced.

Paradise is not a place; it is a state of mind. We must remember this as we remember those who are no longer with us.