It’s that time of year again: the time to give thanks. Every year we are asked the predictable question, “What are you thankful for?” The answers are the usual: your parents, having food and clothes, and so on. This year, instead of giving one of my typical half-ass answers, I took the time to seriously consider what I am grateful for. After some thought, I recognized one thing that if it were not for, I would not be who I am today: my support system.
A support system is defined as a network of people who provide an individual with practical or emotional support. Just saying I am thankful for my support system is pretty broad, so I’ll get specific. Each and every person in my life plays a role in shaping me into the person I am, and my support system has been a fundamental influence in making sure that I did not fall apart this year. My specific support system is comprised of my parents, my sister, and my amazing friends. Throughout high-school, I had a rocky, rebellious relationship with my parents, as most teenagers do. Part of the reason I came to Hampton was to be further away (almost a 10-hour drive) from home. However, it’s not until you are on your own that you truly start to appreciate what your parents do for you. I went from hardly ever talking to my parents to now calling them at least once a week, whether it be for advice, life updates, or just to check in. I realized that I took a lot of what they did for granted and I am now so thankful that I have people who love and care about me and would do almost anything to make sure that I have the life I want.
My sister and I have always been really close. Although four years apart, I consider her one of my best friends. I know that I can always count on her, and we are there for each other no matter what. Even though she sometimes acts like a second mother, she understands me better than anyone else. She is a role model of the woman I one day hope to be, and I am truly grateful for her every day.
Lastly, my friends are my backbone. It takes me a while to open up to people, so having a group of people that I can talk to about anything is essential. They tell me when I am making mistakes, but always support me in what I want to do. I love my friends and do not know where I would be without each and every one of them.
This Thanksgiving take the time to say a word of thanks to your support system. Whether it be family members, mentors, friends, or whoever, they are the glue holding you together. Appreciate who you have in your life, because remember that they are there for a reason.