The holidays have a way of bringing out my sentimental side, so as Thanksgiving approaches, I’ve been reflecting on all the wonderful things I have to be thankful for this holiday season. Here are my top 10:
1. I’m thankful for my parents. I am and will always be in awe of you two. Thank you for teaching me right from wrong. Thank you for teaching me to fight for what I believe in. Thank you for giving me the advice I’ve always needed, whether it was well received or not. Thank you for always supporting me and trusting me. Thank you for always being there; every dance recital, every tennis match, every important event in my life. Thank you for giving me an amazing life. I appreciate everything you have done for me, and “thank you” doesn’t really seem to cover it.
2. I’m thankful for my grandparents. Nina, you have such an amazing strength that you have carried with you, your whole life, and you inspire me daily, so thank you. Grandfather Bob, you left me too early, but all I have are happy memories with you, and for that I’m thankful. Pop, you taught me a million-and-one life lessons, and the importance of education, and I’m so thankful for that. You were truly one of the wisest people I’ve ever known and I have missed your sage advice over the last few years. Nana, thank you for being in my happiest memories as a child. A hug from you can actually cure anything, and just hearing your voice (and your southern accent—yes, you have an accent) brings a smile to my face. Thank you for teaching me the art of “not being tacky” and how to make the world’s best Banana Bread. Thank you for being my Nana, and everything that encompasses. I’m so thankful for all of my amazing grandparents and everything they have taught me.
3. I’m thankful for the rest of my family. All of my cousins, aunts and uncles, are such a big part of my life, and I’m so thankful for the time that I get to spend with each of you.
4. I’m thankful for my pets. I had the happiest childhood because it was filled with fur babies running around our house. From our Golden Retriever, Molly, to our grumpy and beautiful Siamese cat, Bentley, to our sweet and loving Tabby cat, Tabby, to our happy little deaf Cocker Spaniel Sonny, to our wonderful and one of a kind English Springer Spaniel, Bailey. Our pets were deeply cherished, and I’m so thankful for them.
5. I’m thankful for my best friends. Friends come and go, and I’ve had many wonderful friends over the years. But I’m really thankful for the friendships that have withstood time and distance. At Deercreek, SJEDS, Episcopal, and now Wake Forest, I’ve made some friendships that will last a lifetime. Thank you to each of you for always being there for me. For all my highs and all my lows, you guys have been there for everything. Thank you for being such a big part of my life; I love you all so incredibly much, and I’m so thankful for each and every one of you!!!
6. I’m thankful for my sisters. Joining Alpha Delta Pi was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I have loved getting to know all of the genuinely amazing women in this chapter. Every one of you has touched my life in some way, and for that I’m so grateful. I’m also thankful for being able to serve the chapter as Formal Recruitment Chair for the last two years. All my memories in ADPi have been incredible, and I’m so fortunate to call these girls my friends.
7. I’m thankful for my education. As I said, my grandfather always stressed the importance of education. I’ve been very fortunate to get an amazing education, which is a fact I don’t take lightly. So instead of dreading the seemingly endless tests and papers that seem to fall on college students, especially at “Work Forest”, I’m just going to try my best, and be thankful that I have the opportunity to be here at all.
8. I’m thankful for my food and shelter. Being a part of Habitat for Humanity the last few years, has made me realize just how many people don’t have a table to sit at during Thanksgiving, or any other day for that matter. I think a lot of times, we forget how fortunate we are, and I am extra thankful for these basic necessities that most of us take for granted, especially during the holidays.
9. I’m thankful for Democracy. I know America isn’t perfect by any means, and there are a lot of flaws in the system that need to be worked out, but for everything that people complain about, there is also a lot to be thankful for. We live in a country where freedom of expression is celebrated. I know that a lot of people aren’t happy with the election results, but don’t let it cloud your perception of America as a whole. This is still a great country, and I for one, feel blessed to live here.
10. I’m thankful for my health. We’ve all lost someone at some point in time to a health related cause. So many people suffer all over the world due to this basic issue and again, I think it’s something we take for granted, unless it’s directly affecting us. This holiday season, hug your loved ones a little tighter, and be thankful that you all have your health; I know I will.
