7 Reasons To Be Thankful This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a beautiful day. It’s the time of year where we make the drive home to see our families; where we all unite around the dining room table, kicking off the holiday season with whatever traditions we may hold.

And while Thanksgiving has become commercialized, with a strong focus on Black Friday deals, it’s important to remember that we all have a lot to be thankful for.

1. You’re reading this.

No, not that you have to be thankful for my writing, but the fact that you’re reading this means that you have Internet access or a smartphone, which means that you have it better than majority of the world.

2. We have clean water.

3. We have modern medicine.

In Africa, people are dying daily from the Ebola virus that they can’t cure. And, while we have had a fair share of scares in America, we have been able to save most of our patients. More importantly, we have medicine for the everyday cold, easily available clinics, and innovative hospitals that are accessible without having to take extensive drives or walks.

4. Our Armed Forces sacrifice so much to protect us.

It’s true; we have military around the world that are willing to protect our country and safety. And, best of all, they are proud to serve our country. Think of them this thanksgiving while you’re surrounded by your family and they’re thousands of miles away, just hoping to Skype with their loved ones.

5. We have freedom.

Especially true for us women; imagine, if we lived in a world where we couldn’t vote, or choose who we married? While our country isn’t perfect, and we have a lot of steps to take before it is fair and equal, think of how far we have come in a short time, and how much more open-minded we are than other countries.

6. You do not live in poverty.

In America, there is a 14.5% poverty rate. And while we might be making very little money in our entry-level positions, remember, it could be a lot worse. This Thanksgiving, there will be families lined up in front of food shelters, hoping to receive a meal. Be grateful you are not one of them, and compassionate to those who are; you don’t know their story.

7. Our families.

We all have family; family we are born with, and family that we create for ourselves. We have people in our lives willing to help us, make us laugh when we are done, shelter us when we need sheltering. Love surrounds us all, and it helps us rise when we fall—it’s the most important thing we all have.

This Thanksgiving, while you enjoy picking at the turkey before dinner, take a minute to give thanks; for the fortunes in your own life, and the fortunes we have as a nation. Give thanks and remember—no matter what your personal struggle, it will get better.

Happy Holidays.