Being thankful in this life is hard, isn't it?

In a society where billboards and advertisements promote ways to better yourself, it is hard to be thankful. We keep yearning for more and more, without a second thought. 'The more we get, the better life is and the better we are,' they say. 'If this doesn't satisfy you, then this will,' they say. The reality then comes to a startling question:

Are you really satisfied with what you have in life?

I look at this question and say honestly,"No." You might have the same answer. It is the honest-to-goodness truth. Depending on the day and situation, I'm not always thankful with what I have in life. My siblings sometimes get on my nerves. Our new puppy's behavior is frustrating when she doesn't follow directions with her training. I wish my family would spend less time on electronics and more time with each other. When I look at these words again, I find them insignificant compared to what I'm about to list.

I have thought about this over and over again, especially as the years have gone by. Here is what I am thankful for:

1. God

I know not everyone is "religious," but this is the most significant part of my life above all else. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for God. He created me through my parents. What better gift is there than the gift and blessing of life? I try, in the midst of my busy schedule, to thank him for giving me life, because I am thankful to be alive.

2. Family

My family is a blessing beyond words could say. Yes, it is frustrating because everyone is not going to see eye-to-eye, but that is what makes family unique. As the saying goes, 'Your friends will come and go, but family will always be there for you.'

3. Friends

I'm not in any way a popular person, but it's not necessary. My friends don't care if I am athletic or not, tall, short, skinny, built-- it doesn't matter. My friends are there for me when I need them to vent to, to laugh with, to cry with, to scream with excitement with, etc. Quality of friends rather than quantity matters more to me, as long as I have a support group.

4. Technology

Technology has its good days and bad days, when and if it wants to work or not. Having technology to be able to communicate and share memories is what makes this one of the items on my list.

5. Work

Not everyone has the opportunity or privilege to work. I am thankful to be able to have a steady job with decent earnings while balancing school and life in general. It is not the job I want to have for the rest of my life once I graduate college, but for now, it works to earn a steady income.

6. School

I was able to go to a public elementary, middle, and high school. Now, I go to a small private college. Not everyone has that opportunity, especially right in front of us and around the world. College is expensive, but to be able to pursue a degree for a future job is a blessing. I am thankful to be in college pursuing a career in my field of interest.

7. Driving

It is scary and stressful, but being able to drive from point A to point B is all that counts.

8. Independence

Being that way most of my life, I am thankful to not only be around people, but to be alone and independent. Being independent doesn't mean I'm always alone and not having friends. What it means is when I'm not with family or friends, I am able to make my own decisions and know what I need to do.

9. Money

Comes with having a job and earning a paycheck. I try not to take it for granted, because money doesn't grow on trees. I'm just thankful to have money to support myself and reward myself every now and then.

10. Being a volunteer

I had the privilege in middle school and high school to be involved in community service based clubs/organizations. It has continued in college. My passion is helping people and what better way to do so than this. I am thankful to not only step out of my comfort zone, but to help people and know that every little and big thing I do for others makes a difference in their lives.

It is hard, but there are more things than you realize that you are thankful for. Whether it is big or small, it matters. Life is so much more than being satisfied. It is being thankful for what you have that you may or may not otherwise have. What are you thankful for?