Face it; this election has brought out the worst in us. There is so much hatred and hurt in this country at the moment, and it’s heartbreaking to hear about such hateful actions such as burning the flag, beating each other to the death, and much more. This article is not meant to complain about the election, in fact, it is the exact opposite. It is a friendly reminder of things we should be thankful for. We tend to assume the worst if something happens that doesn’t go our way. However, we should try to remember how lucky we are with what we have right now. We have the freedom and choice to make our lives better. We can choose to be happy, but we tend to forget that. Here are reminders that can turn your day from negative to positive.

You woke up this morning

You can take a breathe (appreciate this one, someone out there just took their last)

You can take a nap whenever you want

You can change someone’s day with just a smile

You have a nice warm bed to sleep in

You can snuggle in a blanket when you are cold

You can do anything you set your mind to

There’s this thing that gives you second chances…it’s called tomorrow

If you’re in college, you get to learn something you love everyday

If you have a job, be thankful you’re employed

Your family and friends will always be there

The sun still shines even if your day is gray

Babies can fill a place in your heart you never knew was empty

There are plenty of dog and cat memes to enjoy on the internet

Netflix is available 24 hours a day

You can create anything no matter what talents you have

Your cell phone means you have every device in kingdom-come rolled into one

Helping others is ALWAYS worth it

Complaining will not solve anything

It doesn’t take much to see the best in others

You can listen to music and dance like a fool at any time of the day

Laughing is the best medicine

Calories don’t always have to count

Disney movies will never get old

One of the best places to be is in someone else’s arms

Love is always kind

God loves you just the way you are

You can be inspiring with what you do (choose your actions wisely)

A child looks up to you whether you know it or not

Someone who loves you talks to God about you

You’re a child of God

You can eat thanksgiving dinner very soon

You can be thankful for many things

And…Christmas is coming!

Please remember everything this life has blessed you with. Yes, there are going to be plenty of bad days. Sometimes, it feels as if we won’t be able to handle them. What we need to remember is that we cannot let it control our happiness. Negativity can bring out the worst in people, as we have witnessed this past week in regards to the election. Why should we show hatred when there’s so much love to give?

We get to experience life everyday, through the good and the bad. I was given this life to live it joyfully, and that is something I'll always be thankful for.