What I’m Thankful For

Yes, Thanksgiving was last week but my brother’s birthday is tomorrow and it made me think. There are a lot of things I have in life that I am thankful for.

My family

He has given me my path and a super cute niece and nephew who are the highlight of my life. I am theirs too if their faces when I come through the door are any indication (go here to read why they will be the only children in my life). I’m thankful for my little sister who makes me laugh on the regular even if she makes me sick when I come home. My family’s dog gives me the pet therapy I need and keeps my bed warm sometimes. I’m thankful for my parents, even though they annoy the crap out of me (like all parents do). I know I am lucky to have them in my life. Some arent so lucky (looking at you Trump, here’s how you can help the children that are STILL separated from their parents at the border).

I’m thankful for my extended family too. They all have taken many different paths in life. Theyve given me the knowledge and awareness that there is not only one or two paths. I can focus on my career for my entire life and never have children like my one aunt. I can do both like my other, or I could have skipped college and worked right out of high school. All paths are accepted in my family and I am grateful that I have that freedom to decide for myself.

My Education

I’ve been lucky enough to receive aid to pay for all of my undergraduate degree and get my graduate degree completely paid for. Many individuals are not so lucky. I’m also thankful that I always knew what I wanted to do with my life. It was never a question that it would be psychology and it was never a question that I would be a counselor. I’m thankful for the support system I had immediately going into college. I was a part of a program that helped me every step of the way and still does. I found my friendship soulmate during undergrad who is also my roommate. We’ve led each other through many crises. I don’t know where I would be in life without her influence at that time in my life.

What I am also thankful for is my mental state. I am lucky enough to not have to battle serious mental illness every day. Of course, I have bouts of depression and social anxiety, but I am slowly getting a better handle on.