It seems like 2016 is flying by in the blink of an eye. It seems as though Thanksgiving snuck up on us and now we're already preparing for Christmas. Naturally during this time, I’m sure along with a bunch of you, I tend to forget the significance of this holiday while I’m stuffing my face with all of the delicious food surrounding me. However, with all the recent terror attacks and mall/school shootings, I've come to realize just how thankful I am for all the things I have.

It’s easy to sit back and take everything we are given for granted, but I ask you, what kind of life is that to lead? Were so wrapped up in the big things that we forget about the small things. We forget about the things that really matter. I always like to remember that material things won't follow you to the grave. It's important to know the difference between needs and wants. Good relationships with friends and family are a need. New iPhone's and endless wealth are wants. Some fail to see that. So, that being said, in light of the recent tragedies that have plagued our nation, I reflected on a few things that are most important to me.

1. My Family

Although our schedules are absolutely insane and we're lucky if we're all in the same room at the same time, I'm beyond grateful for having a happy and healthy family. With my brother joining the Marine Corps this past year, it made me all the more thankful for having such a close family. We're not exactly the lovey-dovey kind of family that hug frequently and sing songs through the night, but we do have our own ways of showing affection which I hold near and dear to my heart. My mom, who drives me absolutely mad, is a strong woman and I admire her for all the things she's done (and will do) for our family. My father is hard working and hilarious; keeping every day fun and new. My brother Matthew is unique in every way and I'm blessed to know someone so creative and smart. And Corey, our marine, is so strong and outgoing. He never fails to do the right thing and be a good man, which I admire greatly.

2. My Friend-Family

Between my home friends who I have known my entire life, and my friends at school who I wish I had met sooner, I could not have gotten luckier with the people I have in my life. This section is dedicated to those I can call at 2 am on a Thursday and I know they'll pick up. For when times get too tough to even put to words, I know I can rely on them to be my base of support. They're also the best source of laughter, which is something I can never get enough of. Regardless of whether we may be in different parts of the country, I know they will always be there when needed. At school, I have been blessed to have met some of the most ridiculous yet genuine people in the world, some of whom I have been lucky enough to have known since freshman year. They are honestly what gets me through the obscene amount of coursework that is thrown at us. The constant jokes and laughs can turn even the worst of days around.

3. My Boyfriend

Cain. I am so very sorry for the miniature meltdowns I may have throughout the course of a semester but you've always been my biggest supporter and the best cheerleader around. You make things so easy (which is a blessing in itself because I don't do well with complicated). You have such a kind heart and I admire how hard you work because it makes me want to work harder too. It makes me sad to know that some people don't have someone in their life that they 100% trust thoroughly but lucky for me, I do. I love all the little adventures we have and all the memories we have made. (I look forward to ones to come, too!) I tell you this all the time but you are so awesome and I'm blessed to have you by my side throughout everything.

4. My Education

Although I may complain about it on a daily basis, I am very grateful to be in college studying what I love. While it may not be apparent now, I know that the work I’m doing here will eventually pay off. The opportunities each and every one of us will have after graduation is endless. There are people around the world who are unable to attend college and would kill to be in our spots, yet most of us sit here and take this opportunity we have been given for granted. I know it sounds cliché, but something my friends and I have realized lately is that these four years go by very fast, we shouldn’t take them for granted, we should enjoy our time here while we can.

5. My Health

Although I'm usually fighting a head cold and my back is almost always killing me, I am thankful for my health. I see people my age getting into things that could completely screw up their healthy state and my only question is: Why? I’m not about to go on a rant on the things you shouldn’t do to your body because I am not God, but next time you’re about to do something stupid ask yourself if it's really worth it. You only get one body, no use in ruining it. I'm also so blessed to live in a safe place. I have the luxury of going to and from where, when ever I want to. I am not fearful of being attacked or harmed. I have the luxury of living in a free country.

Instead of focusing on the idea of consuming, I’d encourage you to start figuring out ways you can give to those in need.

– Jarrid Wilson