As I grow older, I find myself being thankful for more and more. I began noticing the little things in life that can mean so much. This holiday season, I am thankful for more than I can say. Of course, I am thankful for the little things like a good book, a warm pair of fuzzy socks and my dog… but there is so much more than that. I am thankful for the opportunity to be at a university getting an education, and for being given the tools and resources to go after my goals and dreams. I am fortunate enough to be a part of a community with amazing staff and students. I am blessed to have a family that supports me in all that I do. They truly show me the definition of love and how to grow up with all the sincerity and care you could imagine. Each time I get to go home and spend time with them reminds me of how special they are, and how dear I hold them to my heart. I am thankful for my amazing friends who put up with all of my ranting, but continue to have my back always. They have taught me how to be a better person and friend, and how family does not have to be blood. They are my home away from home here at school, and remind me that I have people to travel the world for me if I needed it here, too. I am thankful for all of the basic resources that I take for granted every single day such as food and a roof over my head. I am grateful to be healthy, and to be able to do all of things I have accomplished so far in my life. Above all, I am thankful for the life I have been given. This life is truly what you make it, and it should be nothing less than extraordinary. So this season, I challenge you to be thankful for the big and small things in life, and to never forget how lucky you are to have the people around you.