At this time of the year, as the holidays approach and madness sets in, it's important to take a step back and realize all that we have to be thankful for. During a time of constant want, it is hard to see the importance and privelage of what we already have. It's important to see the good that is still in the world, to see all the things that we still can cherish, still look forward to, or even the things that we can look back on.

It's important to take a few moments of each day to realize that you are still alive. That your heart is still beating, your lungs are still breathing and your mind is still working. It's important to realize how many people cherish your existence! It may not always be easy, and at times we may feel alone, lonely, and useless, but there is always someone that loves you, someone that will never be the same if you were to go away. Cherish that feeling, that knowledge that you matter, and that you are worth more than you believe.

Take time to be thankful for the people around you. For the amazing family and friends that get you through the day. Be thankful for their smiles, for their kind thoughts, for their constant love and support. Be thankful for the friendships that cannot be severed and for the laughter and memories that cannot even erased. Be thankful for the tiny things, for these are the things that matter the most.

Be thankful for the lessons this past year has taught you. Whether it be lessons of strength because at times you felt weak, or lessons of perseverance because at times you felt like giving up. Be thankful that you are still here. Be thankful for what you once had, even if you no longer have it. Be happy that you are still given the oppurtunity to love and grow.

Be thankful that you are wise and intelligent. That you have the ability to know right from wrong, the ability to make mistakes and learn from them, the ability to distinguish happiness from pain. Be thankful for the blue sky, the green grass, the leaves falling and the seasons changing. Be thankful for the fact that you can watch as those around you grow and mature, that you can witness those around you become the people they were born to be.

Be thankful that this planet is still turning, that the sun is still shining, that the moon lights up the sky every night and that the stars are there even when we can't see them. Be thankful for the clothes on your back, the roof above your head, the food that rests in your stomach and the shoes on your feet.

Be thankful to be alive, be thankful to be living a life that can easily change at any minute. Be thankful because not everyone has the same oppurtunities, possibilities and chances as you. Be thankful that your heart is still beating, that your lungs are still breathing, and your mind is still working.

During these times, we tend to over look everything we already have, with our minds only set on the things we want. Take the time to cherish everything you have, no matter how small. Keep in mind how lucky you are to be here during these upcoming holidays, and try to share that thoght process with those around you.

Happy Holidays! Hope they are as wonderful and as precious as you are!