If you haven't had the pleasure of reading the book "I Am Malala," by Malala Yousafzai or seeing the documentary "He Named Me Malala," you're missing out on a great learning experience! For those of you who haven't, here's some background information on this amazing young activist. Malala is an 18-year-old Pakistani girl's education activist. At a very young age, Malala stood up to the Taliban who had taken over her village and she thus made a name for herself. Since then, she has written her own book, had a movie featured about her, spoken in front of some of the world's most powerful leaders and made a huge impact in the area of education of young women. Unfortunately, this made her a main target for the Taliban and created a very dangerous life for a young girl to live. She was shot by a member of the group on the left side of her skull and injured severely, but Malala recovered and continues to spread her message with the same bravery and pride. She is a courageous young girl and admirable person and here are some things she taught me that I have to be thankful for.

1. Education is power

Freedom is often a luxury not easily obtained in other countries. Here in the US, we take for granted all the freedoms we do have such as property, religion, relationships and education. The shocking thing is that here all of those gifts are received so effortlessly, while others are having to fight to be heard and die for voicing their opinions. Malala taught me to be thankful for being able to go to school with books, a pencil, and paper and let my knowledge be known and because of her, I will not take for granted the power of my mind.

2. I can never be silenced

Voicing your opinion is a right that Americans are granted, but have you ever thought about the fact that others don't receive that same right? Activists such as Malala take risks when speaking of their concerns. They put their lives on the line in order to fight for what they believe to be right and that kind of courage has taught me to never let my voice be silenced.

3. You can change the world

Malala came from a community where women's opinions and skills are not valued and are even threatened. She managed to reach millions of people through her writing and work and even in the face of death she stood for what she believed in. If Malala can accomplish all that she did in her circumstances, then anyone can change the world.

If there is anything to take away from this article it is not to dwell on the circumstances that are put in front of you because ultimately those are uncontrollable, but what is in your control is what you choose to do with the situation you are given. With a mind full of power and a voice that can never be silenced, you too can change the world, just like Malala.