Thanksgiving is fast approaching. That means turkey, pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, and a whole lot of other delicious foods. On a more serious note, it also entails giving thanks. They teach you pretty early that this is the holiday of gratitude. As November 24th approaches, I can't help but ruminate over the things that I have to be thankful for. However, the more I consider it, the more resistance I feel. Why is that? In today's world, we think that our lives must be perfect in order for us to appreciate them.

Out of curiosity, I looked up the definition of gratitude. It is a noun that means the quality of being thankful. Additionally, it is the readiness to show appreciation for and to return the kindness. Nowhere in those definitions does it mention perfection, ideality, or flawlessness. Appreciativeness is not contingent upon exactness. There is always going to be something about yourself or your life that you would like to change. Yet, we forget to look at where we have come from and where we are at.

There is a saying that goes, "start each day with a grateful heart." I encourage you to open up your mind in the next week or so. Go beyond just using the hashtag blessed. Understand that the things you strive for will not go away as you appreciate what you have. It's about being content. Having a grateful mindset leaves less room for complaints and concerns. Express what those important people mean to you. Take the time to realize that there are people who are worse off than you. Reality checks in when you leave your bubble and you recognize that a Thanksgiving feast is not a guarantee for everyone. The cool thing about gratitude is that it doesn't take a whole lot to gain. All you need is a change in perspective.

There are a lot of things about my life that I wish were different. In a perfect world, I would make more money and ace all of my classes. Nonetheless, I have so much to be thankful for. I am lucky to go to a university that gives me countless opportunities. I am blessed to live in a country where I can freely exercise my beliefs. I am fortunate enough to have friends and family who will support me no matter what. I am happy to have a hot meal on a chilly fall evening. The list could go on and on. What are you thankful for? I am even willing to bet that most of you are "too blessed to be stressed".

Have an attitude of gratitude as this holiday season approaches. Enjoy all of those goofy traditions. Savor the company and the laughs. After all, there is always something to be thankful for.