With Thanksgiving now behind us, and Christmas quickly approaching, I wanted to take a minute to write about some things that we say we are thankful for on Thanksgiving Day, and maybe even throughout the month of November, but that we take for granted the rest of the year.

You've probably seen the quote before that says the same people who complain on social media for 11 months of the year are suddenly so thankful in November. That is the saddest reality. And reality is just what it is.

Sometimes it's so hard to be thankful because we live in a society where we always want more; we are never fully satisfied.

As we are quickly approaching Christmas and the New Year, I want to encourage you to remain thankful throughout the whole year, and not just in November or on Thanksgiving Day. Below are some things that you can always be thankful for, even on the worst days, and even on the days when all you feel like doing is complaining. Remember these things and remember how truly blessed you are to have them:

1. Life.

This morning, you woke up. But somewhere else, someone didn't. Be thankful that you're alive and have the opportunity to see another day.

2. Family.

Maybe your family isn't big, and perhaps it's just you and one other person. But hey, you've got someone who loves you. Don't take them for granted.

3. Job.

I'm sure there are some days when you just really don't want to go into work, but if you knew how many people so desperately need the job you have, you would appreciate it so much more.

4. Food.

Chances are, you have food in your pantry. Maybe it's not your favorite foods, and it may not even be the food you want, but it's food and you're not starving, so be thankful for that.

5. Your relationship with Jesus.

It's a beautiful thing to me that out of everything in this world this is the only thing that I'm promised will never be taken from me. I can't explain how fortunate we are that in His grace and mercy, He cares for us so deeply and promises to never leave us. That in itself is enough reason to wake up every day thankful.

Stay thankful this year (all year long), and try not to complain. Your life will be happier, and you will find that your days are better. We are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for every day.