Thanksgiving

Gratitude and appreciation is a wonderful trait adults encourage from a young age. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it raises the question: how does one remain grateful in the midst of hardship? Both adolescents and early adults can struggle to answer this question, because it tests one’s wisdom and faith to see the light after an arduous and windy path. That journey isn’t easy when life throws curve balls at you, beats you down, and you’re in dire need of refuge. It’s essential to rest in this upcoming break, and spend some time with your family and/or loved ones to fuel your energy for another tomorrow.

For the fortunate, it’s easy to list things they’re grateful for, like: health, family, money, shelter, and other resources. As for the unfortunate, it’s hard to cling onto hope when bombs destroy the lives of civilians, when families are wrenched apart in the name of duty, and when the misuse of funds led to devastation that could have been prevented. Somewhere in Palestine, a family is thankful they managed to escape in time before bombs could fall on top of them. Somewhere in the United States, a family is thankful their son is back in their arms after being labeled a criminal. Somewhere in the Philippines, a family is thankful they were able to rest on top of their roof to avoid the flood.

As simple as it sounds, there is always something to be thankful for. In fact, I would argue that it’s clearer to see when you’re faced with all sorts of adversities. The heart finds ways to look for it, and you just need to open your mind to receive it. So, at this moment, what are you thankful for?