It is easy to get caught up in everything that seems to be going wrong. It is easy to ask 'why me?' when even the slightest hiccup comes our way. It is easy to fall into a rut of blaming the world for all of our problems and thinking that we're on a never-ending streak of bad luck as we fail a test, lose our best friend's favorite shirt, max out our credit card and are late for work.
In today's world, for me at least, it always seems like everyone around me is in a constant struggle. Nothing is ever going right and we're never truly happy, because there is always something to complain about. But in light of recent world events, I have taken a step back to notice all the good things in the world.
A sunny day, a kind stranger, a free meal; it's the small stuff that we forget to notice. Unless we are thriving with success, we are in total and utter failure — there is no in between. We can't be happy just because, and that needs to change.
When something terrible happens, it makes it easier to realize. A bomb went off and killed innocent people at soccer game, and more innocent people on a train. When that happens, does failing a test really look that bad anymore?
Every day, terrible things are happening, and what's happening to you is not always the worst. Now, I'm not saying that you can't be sad. I'm not saying that you can't blame the world and cry into your pillow from time to time, but what I am saying is to notice the good as often as you notice the bad.
Remember how lucky you really are. When I have an extra busy week, I always seem to think that the world is out to get me. Those are the times I forget how lucky I really am. Even the most basic needs do not always come as basic to everyone.
I am healthy and I have great family and friends. I have roof over my head at all times, and I am lucky enough to be provided an amazing education at a great institution. I live a life full of happiness and do not give it enough credit.
At times, this world is a messed-up place. Bad things do happen to good people, and lives are taken way too soon. Even our small problems seem catastrophic from time to time, but we have to remember the good stuff too.
I have been fortunate enough to live the life I have dreamed of in so many different aspects, but unfortunately, I have taken it for granted at times just because of the few things that don't go as planned.
As I sit and cry over my failed test grade, someone is losing a loved one and someone else is searching for a place to sleep for the night. So take a step back, count all your stars, and remember how blessed you truly are.
