Giving of Thanks

So I know that it's not quite Thanksgiving yet, but it's close enough. I can't believe it's already that time! This semester has been so short and quick, but so long and slow at the same time. Anyway - that's not what this is about.

I love Thanksgiving. I've always loved Thanksgiving. There is no giving of gifts, only giving of thanks. Any gift giving that does occur is typically donations of food or other items to those in need and you can't go wrong with that. I like Thanksgiving because it's a good time to step back and reflect on what really matters in life. What are you really grateful for? In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'd like to share just a few things that I am exceedingly grateful for.

First, opportunity. I am so blessed to be here in Indiana and going to school. I think sometimes people see college and even grad school as so commonplace and even expected. Yet for plenty of people, it is merely a dream. I'm thankful for the chance to get a quality education - first from Texas A&M and now here at IU. There have been so many things and people that have played a crucial role in my being here today - you know who you are and I'm grateful for you.

Second, freedom. The world today isn't the happiest place. What a relief it is to know that I live in a place where I have the freedom to form my own values and beliefs, the freedom to do what is best for me. Although some might argue the role of government in our lives today, there are places far worse off than we are in here in America. We don't have our lives, our actions and our beliefs dictated to us or for us - we have the freedom to choose. What a blessing that is!

Third, experiences. I've had plenty of them in my young age - some more trying than others. I'm thankful for the good and for the bad. The bad have made the good more meaningful and the good have made the bad more tolerable. I may complain when I'm going through a tough time, but I usually come out a better and stronger person when it's all over. My trials have absolutely shaped who I am today.

Finally, I am grateful for family. My family is funny. We've had our good times and we've had our not-so-good times, but through it all we're still a family. I still feel the support from my parents and each and every one of my siblings. They are always there to laugh at me when I need it and to love me when I need it. When everything goes terribly wrong in life, I know I still have a place in my family. I know if I go home I'll always be welcomed with open arms. I could have made this about family & friends, but the unconditional friends I have can fit into the family category - all the descriptors are the same.

The list could go on and on really. There are so many things I am grateful for and so many things I have been blessed with. I'm grateful for Thanksgiving - and even though I won't be at home this year, it doesn't change the spirit of the season and my giving of thanks.