As Thanksgiving approaches and passes into December and to what many label the holiday season many reflect on their life and think about what they are most thankful for. I believe that one thing you should always be thankful for even when it is not Thanksgiving is your family.

Your family has raised you, for however many years, and continues to stand by you, believe in you, and advise you whenever you need it. Those are invaluable things that no on should ever take for granted.

Your family has loved you since the day you were born. Always trying to show you the love, and compassion you need to allow you to flourish in your future. The love and support given to you by your family not only allows you to understand what it truly feels like to have and give unconditional love, but also allows you to know that while you may grow up and be independent they will always be there for you no matter what.

Your family has tirelessly and endlessly tried to give you the best life they can possibly give you, and succeeded.

They have pushed you to believe in yourself, and to try your hardest at everything and anything you may do. They taught you that this will only help you succeed in life.

They have and always will support all of your dreams, pushing you to accomplish them and go after them in a way that makes it impossible for them not to become your reality.

They taught you that being gracious, thankful, and kind are character traits that are always good to have.

They have taught you that you are very fortunate in life, and that there are people who do not live life the way you are lucky enough to be able to, so always be kind, and to help and give to those less fortunate than you.

They are people who will never judge you for what you have done or may do, but rather will lift you up when you are down. They are someone who you can always count on to be there for you, even in your worst days.

They are people who you can tell your deepest secrets and desires to and they will guard them as if they are there deepest secrets and desires.

They are someone who you will always look to for advice no matter how old you get.

And people who you always miss when they aren't near, but most importantly they are people who you will always love.

As Thanksgiving comes and goes, people become more aware of what they are most grateful and thankful for, but we should all take notice of what we are thankful for all year round instead of only being aware during the Thanksgiving and holiday season. We should always notice and realize what we are most thankful for and express that thanks always.