Thank you. Two simple words that carry a great deal of meaning. Two words that we don't say enough. Two words that can add a smile to someone's face. Two words we never need to forget. Thank you.

The day of the year is quickly approaching when it's time to gather around the table and think of what we are thankful for. A day that many see as just another holiday, but it's so much more than that. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings we have in our lives. But it's also a time to reflect on the not so great things, and still be grateful.

Being thankful isn't just about sharing praise when things are going great, but being truly thankful is when you can keep a joyful spirit when things aren't going the way you planned. Gratefulness isn't something you feel once a year. It should be something you feel throughout all seasons of your life.

Life has definitely proved itself to be difficult. I have had days where I don't want to be thankful for anything. Days when I feel like there is nothing to be thankful for. But I have to stop myself and reflect on all the good in my life. Don't let foolish things get you down. Remember that you are alive and you are loved by a God who does not ever turn away.

This Thanksgiving, I am choosing to recognize all the blessings in my life and thank God for all that he has given me. I have a mom who wants me to reach all of my dreams. I have a little brother who brings so much laughter and joy to my days. I am surrounded by a family who loves me so deeply. My Thanksgiving table is filled with people who want to see me succeed. There are turkey and mashed potatoes on the table and a roof over my head. I have a roommate who has become my sister and a group of the best friends I could ever imagine. They bring adventure and excitement to my life every single day. I have a Jesus who walks with me through all aspects of life, letting me know that I am never alone.

I have been given blessings that have filled me full of contentment. Still, I choose to be thankful for the hard times. Yes, school is stressful, but I am thankful that I have the privilege of getting a college education, and at Ouachita for that matter. My laundry basket overflows with dirty clothes that I have no time to wash, but I am thankful because I have clothes on my back.

Thank you. Two words I am choosing to remember every day. Two words that allow us to show how grateful we are for both the triumphs and the trials in our lives. This Thanksgiving I choose to be thankful throughout all seasons of my life. Thankful for the good times that give me comfort and the bad times that give me wisdom and allow me to grow. Making mistakes is OK. Sometimes we can learn a lot from the things that don't go as planned.

So, go out and tell someone thank you. Show someone you care and shower them with love. Maybe they will share that love with someone else. All it takes is one person and two simple words to start a reaction.