The sweet smell of apple pie, sweet potatoes, and deep-fried turkey drifts through the house. After hours of everyone working tirelessly in the kitchen, watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and making small talk, it is time for everybody to gather around the table for Thanksgiving dinner. Before digging into the feast set before you, your father asks each person to name something they are grateful for. Various relatives mention their family, friends, and good health. When it is finally your turn to respond to your dad's question, your mind goes blank. You have recently been struggling with some tough life circumstances and can't think of an answer.

If you are finding it difficult to be thankful this Thanksgiving, here are four unexpected things to be grateful for this holiday season.

1. You are blessed to be taking tough college courses this semester.

Right now you might feel overwhelmed from taking a large amount of credit hours, be frustrated with a terrible teacher you have for a class, or feel unhappy about being enrolled in a course on a subject you dislike. When you are stressed at school remember that in just a couple of weeks you will be finished not only with final exams but also this semester. All the hard work you are currently doing will eventually allow you to graduate from college. A bachelor's degree will make you marketable to employers and increase your chances of one day getting your dream job.

2. Be thankful you have a part-time job where you have to often work strange hours, do menial tasks, or deal with demanding customers.

Some college students not only have a difficult course load this semester but also a part-time job. If you work in customer service or retail, sometimes it is hard to embrace the trite phrase, "the customer is always right." Slow, boring days at work can be just as frustrating as days filled with disgruntled customers. Even if you have a job you love, sometimes it is tough to balance your work duties with your school responsibilities. Whenever you feel like quitting after a hard day, remember the reason why you are working. The money you make can be used to pay bills or allow you to have more fun with your friends on the weekend. A customer service job also looks great on a resume when you apply for your first "real job."

3. Be grateful that you have parents and siblings that occasionally aggravate you.

Your parents may constantly ask you about your part-time job, grades at school, future plans, or responsibilities. Often it is hard not to grow frustrated with them. If your mom and dad start to drive you crazy, remember that by asking you about your life, they are showing that they love you and care about your well-being. Sometimes your siblings annoy you more than your parents. If you disagree with some of the recent decisions and actions of your brother or sister, pray for them, spend time with them, and communicate with them. Both of you may obtain a better understanding of each other and strengthen your relationship.

4. Be appreciative that you periodically have misunderstandings and disagreements with your friends.

Not only your family but also your close friends can annoy you sometimes. Even with the best of friends, personalities can clash, backstabbing can occur, and feelings can get hurt. If you are struggling to forgive a friend, it is easy to be passive aggressive and gossip about or ignore them. Dealing with conflict is not always easy, but if you and your friend are able to communicate with and forgive each other, you can have a stronger relationship and increased appreciation of each other's unique life perspective.

Still having a difficult time being thankful this Thanksgiving? Seek advice from and draw close to those who care about you. Voice your thoughts and feelings, and let others encourage you and build you up.