Thankfulness is an attitude, not just an act. It's an overwhelming sense of peace and contentment. A day like Thanksgiving is the perfect way to remind all of us that we have so much to be thankful for. Not just today, though - every day.

On the days where I am stressed beyond belief and pulling my hair out, I can be thankful. I have the opportunity to get an education. I have a warm house to complete (or at least attempt to complete) my assignments. I have professors that really, truly do care about me and friends and family that are my greatest cheerleaders.

On the days where I am struggling to see the steps I need to take, I can be thankful for a God who does see. I can be thankful for the plan, though it is more invisible than air at times, He has for me. I can be thankful that those steps I take will not be taken alone.

On the days where I am tired and worn out, I can be thankful for the activities and opportunities that keep me busy. I can be thankful for the healthy body I have that allows me to get out and go places. I can be thankful for the warm bed I can seek comfort in when the day is done.

On the days where I am frustrated with my lack of {things, money, talents, etc}, I can be thankful for the many things I do have and can do. I can be thankful for the diversity God brought about when He created every single person. I can be thankful for the talents others are able to use to glorify God with. I can be thankful for the talents and resources He gave me to accomplish the same purpose. I can be thankful that, even though I am far from rich, I have never truly experienced need.

This Thanksgiving and Christmas season, I encourage you to look for the blessings in your life. Even in the times when they seem to be nonexistent amid all the yucky, chaotic ugliness you're experiencing at the time, take a deep breath and remember that there is always something to be thankful for. And after you realize this, maybe consider partnering with an organization like World Vision and helping bless others who really are in desperate need of basic necessities. Food, water, medical attention - things we can be thankful for - can be few and far between for families across the globe. Maybe even families next door to you.