Giving Thanks This Thanksgiving

I really can't believe how quickly Thanksgiving arrived this year. With my semester wrapping up and finals quickly approaching, it feels like I've been moving 100 mph for a while now. This weekend I'm looking forward to taking a breather and relaxing.

Since I've had a bit of down time, I've really been reflecting on all the positive things in my life. It's easy to get stressed and overwhelmed, and I feel I often forget to be thankful for everything I have. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I made a list of some things I'm grateful for this year, and I challenge you to do the same.

1. My family. I'm so blessed to have an amazing family that supports me 100%. Throughout all of the challenges I've faced, they've been by my side and believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself.

2. My friends. From my friends I met in kindergarten to the friends I met in law school, I'm beyond thankful for those in my life. They always know how to make me smile and I know that I can rely on them no matter what.

3. My job. Yes, there are days when I don't want to go to work, but I'm fortunate to have a wonderful job that pays my bills and great coworkers that I love working with.

4. All the opportunities I've had. Throughout my life I've been blessed with wonderful internships, the ability to study abroad, amazing adventures to states and countries, and so much more. When I look back on my experiences, I'm so thankful for everything I've been able to do and the people who have supported me and sacrificed to make it possible.

5. The fact that I've never gone without. I have never experienced a shortage of food. I have always had a roof over my head and a bed of my own. I grew up with a wonderful, supportive family. As I've gotten older, I realize how fortunate that makes me and I try to remember to give thanks for those blessings every day.