This year has been a year unlike the rest. I have become more aware of the issues that have been happening in the world. I have been learning about minorities, oppressions, and tragedies that have been occurring on what feels like a daily basis. With that being said, I would like to share what I am thankful for. I know that when this article gets published, Thanksgiving will be over. However, I am currently sitting on my couch watching football with my family while dinner is cooking in the other room on this Thanksgiving day. Although learning about the issues of the country and the world have been tolling, I feel as though this Thanksgiving I am extra thankful for the things I normally take for granted.

Clean Water

The Standing Rock protests that have been happening all over the nation have been an eye opener for me. The people at Standing Rock are peacefully protesting for their right to protect their clean water. If the Dakota Access Pipeline is put into place, it would disrupt sacred burial grounds and harm the land and the water of the Native American peoples. I was lucky enough to preview Fidel Moreno’s rough cut of his documentary “Solidarity with Standing Rock” when he came to Keene State earlier this November. The documentary shared all of the communities that were coming together to help the people of Standing Rock stand in solidarity to prevent the attacks that have been happening to the protectors of the water. Moreno’s documentary also shared with us how dangerous the drinking water already is due to fracking. With all this being said, I think about the peoples of Standing Rock everytime I turn on the water. I am incredibly lucky to have access to safe water for drinking, brushing my teeth, showering, and much more.

My Family

I couldn’t be more blessed or lucky to be able to grow up with such a supportive, selfless, humble, and giving, family. Each and every one of my family members encourage me to do what I love. My parents sacrifice so much to give me the opportunities that I have been able to have. I am so lucky that I am able to have a roof over my head, a college education, and clothes on my back. I wouldn’t have done anything that I have been able to accomplish without them. Growing up where education is highly valued in my family has shaped the person I am. I couldn’t thank my family enough for all that they have done for me and continue to do for me.

Health

Piggybacking off family, I am thankful that all of us are healthy. This is something that I often take for granted. Many people I have come across have illness, disease, or loss in their families. It’s tough to hear about and it makes you hug your family a little bit tighter. I am glad that we are living healthy lives, and have had little complications. Like I said, I love my family, and I don’t know what I’d do without them.

Education

Going to college is another thing that I have taken for granted. The stress, workload, and lack of sleep can be tolling on someone. However, I am incredibly lucky that I get to wake up and go to class. I know that college is a privilege due to cost, and that not everyone is able to go to college. I know that no matter what happens to me, no one can take away my education. Knowledge is power, and I am thankful to say that I am able to attend college.

Friendship

I try to make sure each and every one of my friends knows how special and important they are to me. This is because they have an incredible influence on my life. Each one of my friends contributes to my growth. They are always teaching me new things. They are always pushing me to knew levels. They are all shoulders to cry on when I am stressed out, not feeling well, or am having an issue. I can always count on them for a laugh, and a big hug. I think I would lose my mind if I didn’t have them. They encourage me to grow. They celebrate my successes. We laugh together, cry together, and grow together. We all want amazing things for each other. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of friends. I know that during this time of year I always try to remind them more than usual how important they are to me.

Thank you to everyone in my life who has contributed to making me stronger, better, smarter, and kinder. I wouldn’t be who I am today without you. So readers, please make sure that you take time to think about the things that you may take for granted. The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter, family, and friends. Make sure you say your blessings, thank-you’s, and always be kind. Happy holidays everyone!