Life doesn’t always go the way we have planned. There are ups and downs and all-arounds that get us caught up in our daily life routines that we sometimes forget the beauty and wonder of all the things that we are blessed to possess. I know that I personally can be consumed by an artificial life of false happiness and a fast-paced lifestyle instead of being aware of true happiness and bliss around me. It is thanks to these broad reasons that I get excited as Thanksgiving approaches. In a way, Thanksgiving is a time for me and many others to take a step back from reality to reflect and really appreciate what we are thankful for in our lives. Here is a list of the things that I am thankful for this holiday season.

I am thankful for waking up today.

I am thankful for being healthy.

I am thankful for the leaves on the trees that provide a colorful production throughout the year.

I am thankful for the sun that shines down, providing us light and warmth.

I am thankful for having a shelter that keeps me warm in the winters and cool in the summers.

I am thankful for having food to eat and water to drink.

I am thankful for my intelligence that grows each day.

I am thankful for my education even though sometimes the seven-page paper might seem like it will never get done.

I am thankful for struggling and the temptations that might hold me back.

I am thankful for my faith and my beliefs.

I am thankful for the hardships that I have encountered, for they have made me who I am today.

I am thankful for the Chicago Cubs who finally brought home a World Series win to Chicago.

I am thankful for the Thanksgiving feast that my family will prepare this holiday season.

I am thankful for the time that I will get to spend with everyone that I love.

I am thankful for my roommates who never fail to put a smile on my face.

I am thankful for my friends at home that continue to take me in with open arms.

I am thankful for my best friends, for they never fail to be there when I need them by my side.

I am thankful for my boyfriend who loves me even when I am a pain.

I am thankful for my giant family, blood related or not, for they have an endless supply of support.

I am thankful for my brothers and sisters, including the ones who aren’t related by blood.

I am thankful for my mother who believes in everything that I have done and can do.

I am thankful for my dad, who I wish could be here with us today.

I am thankful for the life I was blessed with having.

I am thankful for life.

I am thankful.

As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I challenge you to reflect on what you are thankful for this holiday season and to really take the time to spend the day with people who you love. You never know what you have until it’s gone. Happy Thanksgiving!