When we're younger all we want is to grow up. We're in a great big hurry because with that comes the freedom to do as you please (staying out as late as you want, not cleaning your room, partying till the break of dawn, etc.). We don't consider the negatives because we are so focused on only the good. Bad things that come to mind are things like bills, having to make every one of your next meals, eating dinner alone. But in my experience, the worst part about getting older is realizing it's not just you who is aging. The older you get the older your parents, grandparents, siblings, etc. get.

You don't notice changes in an individual you see every day until you haven't seen them in a while. For example, when you go home for a weekend and notice your little brother and sister grew taller. You begin to notice the changes that once took place right before your eyes. You view the passage of time through white hairs and wrinkly hands. You realize what you were missing. You start noticing that you're not the only one getting older. You look at your family and you think this is the way it's going to stay forever. Again, we are only focusing on the good. It's only human to take these moments for granted.

I'm telling you to pause this Thanksgiving. Look around your table and take as much of it in as you can. Hug everyone you see. You never know just what to be thankful for until it's gone. Throughout the past few years my table has lost a few loved family members. You don't see the same faces every year. Sometimes it's because of a tragic loss and other times it's because of a new addition. In both situations it's never going to be the same. So breathe in and enjoy your holiday, stuff your face and be thankful you will always have an open seat.