As we are riding the tail of Thanksgiving, I wanted a minute to really thank a lot of people and aspects of my life for the way that they are right in this very moment. These small notes are incomparable to the gratefulness I really feel, but I consider it wonderful to even begin expressing these feelings to those that matter most. Without further ado, life-- I say "thank you."

First and foremost, thanks be to God. God, I am undeserving of the many blessings you've given me, and I cannot express just how thankful I am for it all in words. You've given me such a beautifully messy life, and I wouldn't have it any other way. You have provided me the opportunity to wake up each morning with a world to serve in Your love. You have given me life, and every single moment, You have been there. Your grace is so indescribable, but I feel and see it more and more each day. I love You, Lord. It is all for You.

My wonderfully crazy family, I'm so very thankful to have a strong support system in you. Your unconditional love has shaped the person I am, and life would not be nearly as fantastic without you. You are all so full of humor, kindness and wisdom-- three lovely things all wrapped up into one. You are there every step of the way for every member of the family, and that's an incredible picture of what love looks like. Thank you all for being unapologetically yourselves, and sharing so many hugs, laughs and warmth throughout the years.

To my friends, you are always building me up, so it's my turn to build you up. You encourage me to be the best version of myself, and keep me laughing or smiling at all times. I love that you're all so different as people, but all have the same kind hearts. I spend a lot of time with you, and I'm forever thankful for that time. Thank you for playing a special role in my life--one that you didn't ask to play, but did anyway. My gratitude is tremendous.

To my school and teachers, I'm so blessed to be able to have the opportunity to receive a great education thanks to you. Your spirit and support has transformed our school into a family--one that I'll always be happy to call myself a part of. Your dedication to your work is so admirable, and the impact you've made on my growth--not only as a learner, but a person--is so awesome. To my teachers especially, thank you for loving what you do and constantly being there to help me continually grow. You are fantastic.

To anyone that I've ever known...whether you realize it or not, you too have played a part in making me who I am...and I thank you for the opportunity to have known you or come in contact with you. We're here on this earth to love one another, and I have nothing but gratitude and love for you all. I hope that you also feel this thankfulness for others, as it is one of the coolest feelings ever.

May we always take time to give thanks for our lives, not only during the Thanksgiving season, but all year round.