And, two days ago, Thanksgiving was celebrated throughout
the country and beyond. I like this day, one that calls us to remember just how
blessed we are, even in the worst of times. However, every time I see a
challenge to “remember one thing you are thankful for each day,” etc., I can’t
help but be dumbfounded. Because, what do I have NOT to be thankful for? And I
mean it! In every instance I can think of, there is always something to for which
I can be thankful. Stressed because of work/interning/homework? Well, I’m
thankful that I have a job (and one that I love), I’m able to learn from
knowledgeable dietitians at a top hospital, and I’m able to learn how to better
serve people. Annoyed because it’s raining when I have to walk to the hospital?
Well, we need the rain, and it breaks up the scenery. It just takes stepping back for a minute to
see these things. I’m not saying it’s easy, but I am saying that I think it’s
important to do so.
On that note (and now that you’ve all labeled me as
officially an incurable optimist), here are a few specific things that my age
is allowing me to see just how thankful I am for them, many of which I never
realized were so special until now:
My parents-Not anything
out of the ordinary, I know, but I realize more and more each and every day
just how thankful I am for my God-fearing parents, who have and continue to
sacrifice so much for me. I’ve never doubted that I am loved, full of worth,
supported in my decisions, and created for a purpose. My parents raised me to
be confident, responsible, to serve others, and, most importantly, to love God.
What more could I ask for?
My family-Sorry,
fam, but I thought the parents deserved a special spot. ;) But, I am still
immensely blessed to have such amazing brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts,
uncles, and cousins. From having someone to play hotel with me in the tree cave
to being able to read them stories to being able to share everyday life, I’m
thankful for my siblings and wouldn’t trade them for anything. And, I am
ever-thankful for the love shown to me by my extended family, who visit me,
send me cards (and pictures!), and have always been an encouragement and
integral part of my life.
Friends-New and
old, I’m thankful for you! For being with me through thick and thin, to
Arkansas, Narnia, Idaho, and back again, surviving 5 semesters of chemistry,
for inviting me into your home(s), letting me be my nerdy, organized self, and
putting up with my sometimes food and nutrition-obsessed talking points, I
thank you. I’m glad we’re on this journey together.
Professors-For
those who have and continue to invest in me, I am thankful. I wouldn’t be who I
am today without them!
Iowa City-Even
though I’ve only lived here for a few months, I absolutely love this town! The
people, landscape, location, everything. I’m excited to become more involved in
this community.
Peanut butter-I
know, a little less serious, BUT, I am glad that someone was inspired to grind
up peanuts and eat them! My diet would be drastically changed if there were
ever a peanut butter shortage.
Masterpiece Theater-I
probably wouldn’t watch TV-ever-if it wasn’t for Masterpiece on PBS. Downton
Abbey, Foyle’s War, Call the Midwife, you name it; I’ve probably seen it and
enjoyed it.
People-I love
nothing more than talking to, spending time with, and getting to know people. I’m
thankful that my work allows me to do these things each and every day.
Redeeming grace-Where
would I be without this? And, I’m even more thankful for the fact that I have
absolutely nothing to do with it, but it is a free gift.
I could go on for a really long time, but I think you all
get the idea. Be thankful. Always. And don’t forget it!
P.S. Did anyone catch the Veggie Tales reference? Madame
Blueberry, anyone? J
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