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7 Things I Never Realized I Was Grateful For Until I Hit My 20s

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. - Melody Beattie

Scarlett Bradley

Jul 18, 2018

University of Virginia

149

7 Things I Never Realized I Was Grateful For Until I Hit My 20s

Eli DeFaria via Unsplash

Somethings just don't click until your 20s. Here are some things I am grateful for now that I am older.

1. Having parents that are human

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When I was young I used to think my parents were superhuman. However as many teenagers, one day I found out they were not. It took time for me to come to terms with this. Yet, as I am now in my 20s I am so grateful to know my parents are human just like me. With this peace of mind, I feel a stronger connection to them and admiration for them.

2. Friends who take me as I am

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I have always been someone very true to myself. However, I was not always applauded for this. Growing up in a relatively homogeneous town, it was difficult to find people who simply took me as I am. Now that I am in my 20s and have voyaged into the world, I have met a myriad of diverse people, who do not create a set of regulations I must meet. They love me for me. They have become my dearest friends.

3. Being a woman

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It hasn't been until my twenties that I have taken the time to study strong females in history, pop culture, and in my own social circle. And I respect men, but there are some pretty cool women out there. As I have learned about them, I feel inspired to strive for my dreams and goals just as they did.

4. All the education and experience I have gained

I have been going to school for the past 18 years. Basically, my entire life has been spent in school. It would be a lie if I didn't admit that I questioned at some point in my life why I was forced to do such a thing. However, now in my twenties, I value not only the academic knowledge I gained but more so I value the experiences I was exposed to as a youth. These experiences are what helped me develop into an adult.

5. Being culturally diverse

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Having parents from different countries was an interesting experience growing up. People always wanted to know what I 'really was', like where I was 'from from'. And such limiting questions always annoyed me. Not to mention, that I had to face the daunting task of balancing both cultures in daily life. However, now that I am in my twenties, I am so grateful to have been raised with a holistic perspective on culture.

6. Having trials to face

It's never easy to go through rough times. And like everyone, I have had my fair share. However, now that I am older I do not look on those times of difficulty with bitterness. Now I see them as lessons learned. Just like Kelly Clarkson says, if it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger.

7. A greater sense of purpose through religion

As a youth I was not religious at all. My concerns were focused elsewhere. But now that I have reached my twenties I am grateful to have religion in my life. It grants me a greater sense of purpose. This is not limited to what I am taught doctrinally, but also includes morals and beliefs I personally have chosen to follow. It is gratifying to know that I have foundation I build upon.

These are just a few of the things I have come to appreciate in my 20s. I know that my 30s, my 40s, and so on will bring more blessings I can appreciate.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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