"Appreciation,well, it comes and it goes. But I, I'll ride that wave with you. It's human nature to miss what's under your nose. 'Til you, 'til you remind a fool"

Everything is often easier said than done. We walk through the hustle and bustle of our lives and pay little mind to our surroundings. With school, work, volunteering, and all the other responsibilities life toss our way, it is easy to neglect what we have in our lives. Frankly, the quote "stop and smell the roses" best describes what we so importantly need to do. It's completely understandable to fall victim to life's hectic schedule and stressful events. However, people must slow down, take a moment, and appreciate everything around them.

Often, I find myself caught up in the midst of life and seem to miss a lot. When I think of appreciation, I automatically associate this with my family and friends. I've realized that I don't truly appreciate those around me the way that I should. While friends and family have been a strong support through difficult times, there is so much to be thankful for. This support was somehow lost upon myself, and I allowed the stress of life to cloud what is truly important. Family. Friends. These are what matter most at the end of the day.

I can't simply say that "I appreciate my family and friends," which is just like saying "congratulations, you made a declaration," and not doing anything. There is a significant difference than merely being self-aware of this, and actually making an effort to change. That's all you can do- simply make an effort to change. Appreciate those around you. If it's a matter of how, then treat them right. While my family and friends have listened to my anxiety-driven meltdowns or excitement of life events, I should be equally interested in them. With this selfish assumption to just keep swimming through my own life, I lost the care I once had for others. I need to care for others, like they care for me; that's how I show appreciation.

Relationships are so key to our lives, that's why we must cherish them. While it's easier to simply forget to appreciate others, I realized I wouldn't have achieved much in life without these relationships. I've reached so many heights in my life, partly because of an extraordinary support system from my family and friends.

Be appreciative of the little moments, the moments you wouldn't think to cherish.

Life is difficult, especially with these looming responsibilities of finals and the holidays. However, these times are the important to appreciate those close to us. Our family and friends, those are the people we hold close to our hearts. Insignificant tests are so minuscule in comparison to the love, comfort, and happiness our family and friends bring into our lives.