1. The ability to voice my opinion freely

Living in America, we are drilled with knowing our own rights and making sure to exercise them. There isn't a day that goes by where I do not voice my opinion, whether it be on social media, to my peers, my friends, or my community. It is alarming to me that people across the world do not have the same freedom as I do and it makes me even more grateful to have the ability to do so.

2. Being able to pick my own career path

Growing up, I was never forced to fit a certain mold or aspire to become someone who I didn't want to be. The ability to plan out my own future based on my own preferences and interests is something that was gifted to me and I could not imagine my life any other way.

3. Experiencing all four seasons

It wasn't until I got to college that I realized some of my friends from different parts of the world never got the chance to experience winter or four distinct seasons. Although I could do without snow, growing up with four seasons gave me variety and an abundance of memories.

4. Public transportation

Without the bus or train systems, traveling back and forth from school wouldn't be possible.

5. Hot water

Something I use every day but never acknowledge!

6. Vaccinations

I am not the biggest fan of needles but not having to worry about becoming infected with a life-threatening illness is definitely a blessing.

7. Independence

Although this concept is abstract, independence is something that not everyone has. There are millions of people who suffer from disabilities which make them unable to drive cars, walk on their own, hold certain jobs and even attend a public school. Being able to take of myself and be in charge of my own life is something that I do not spend a lot of time thinking even though it shapes my whole life.

8. Chocolate (and anything else that has sugar in it)

The accessibility of chocolate, as well as all of our favorite foods and guilty pleasures should never be taken for granted.

9. Washing machines

Imagine how time-consuming it would be to wash clothes without access to a washing machine and any other modern technology.

10. A group of people that care about me

There are many times throughout the day where I will turn to my friends, my parents or even my teachers for advice but I don't thank them enough for all that they do. Having a group of people that you know will support you through your triumphs and failures is invaluable and their compassion should never be forgotten or ignored. The people that make up your life directly influence your happiness and without them, your life would truly not be the same.