There are two parts involved in the celebration of Thanksgiving and these parts are evident in the name of the holiday; Thanksgiving is a compound noun composed of the words "thanks" and "giving". Moreover, Thanksgiving reminds us to be both thankful and giving. Just as there is an innate two part nature to this holiday, my article is also two parts.

PART 1: BE THANKFUL

Thanksgiving is much more than sweet potatoes and turkey; it is a day that reminds us to be thankful. It is so important to reflect on the things you are thankful for. Gratitude is a transformative practice that makes life more meaningful. It can be easy to take daily luxuries for granted, but a life full of gratitude is a better life. In honor of the "thanks" part of Thanksgiving, here are 10 things I am thankful for:

1. My parents' unconditional love.

2. My dog.

3. My friends.

4. Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin songs.

5. The Gilmore Girls' Revival.

6. Tea.

7. My ability to live in the land of the free because of the brave.

8. Laughter.

9. Sunrises and sunsets.

10. Chocolate.

Make a list of 10 things you are thankful for.

PART 2: BE GIVING

Thanksgiving also reminds us to give. It is so easy to give to others and so necessary. Chances are that many of the comforts in your life were given to you; perhaps from the sacrifices of your parents or the generosity of your grandparents. Even life's little gifts like stranger's that hold the door open are gifts. All the gifts you receive should inspire you to pay it forward. Here are 10 easy ways to give back:

1. Donate food to your local food pantry.

2. Give blood. (http://www.redcross.org/)

3. Send care packages or letters to US soldiers. (https://www.operationgratitude.com/)

4. Run or walk for a cause. Even your weekend jog can be used to give back using the Charity Miles app.

5. Volunteer at a local Senior Center.

6. Online shop via GoodSearch (https://www.goodsearch.com/). You choose the cause that GoodSearch donates a percentage of your purchases to.

7. Buy your school supplies through Yoobi (http://yoobi.com/). For every Yoobi item you buy an item is donated to a U.S. classroom in need of school supplies.

8. Donate your clothing to Goodwill (http://www.goodwill.org/).

9. Volunteer at your local soup kitchen.

10. Do something kind for someone else. It can be as simple as holding the door open or giving a compliment.

Everyday find some small way to pay it forward.