As Thanksgiving is approaching, there are a lot of things to be thankful for in life. However, I think many of us forget how lucky and fortunate we are sometimes.

Many of us come from loving homes, go to great schools, and are able to lead normal lives. Others struggle and need to work extra hard to have a good life.

Many of us are able to eat three meals a day, get a good night sleep, have a car, and much more. Others have to walk to school because they or their parents have no form of transportation and some students are homeless but are still going to school.

Some kids go to bed hungry every night and depend on that reduced or free lunch at school. These issues are real and ones that many people have to face every day of their lives.

So no matter how old you may be or what stage you are in your life, be thankful. Even if you are having a hard time or are struggling, there is probably someone out there that is doing worse than you are. So, be thankful for the things that you do have and the positives that are in your life at the moment.

All of us are going to be thankful for different things but it is important to address these things. Another great thing about the holidays is the spirit of giving. Go visit your local soup kitchen or bring sweets to your local fire and police stations to thank them for being away from their families on a holiday. If you are a recipient of a kind act, be thankful.

Appreciate the good and good people in a world of so much evil.

Be thankful for what you do have. Be thankful for life. Be thankful for family. Be thankful for friends. Be thankful for your education. Be thankful for the little things. Be thankful for the big things. Be thankful for the good times. Be thankful for everything you may take for granted.

Being thankful and realizing all the great things that you have is going to make you a happier person and a more understanding person overall.

Keep your family close this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!