Obligatory Thanksgiving Blog Post

When I was younger, I never really liked Thanksgiving. The older I get though, the more I appreciate the holiday for what it's actually supposed to be. It's more than just cramming poultry and stuffing into your skull. It's about giving thanks, go figure. Acknowledging and appreciating the people in your life. Counting your blessings, whatever or however big or small they may be. The beauty of Thanksgiving is that you don't need to present a flashy gift to your loved ones. Being around the people that matter most to you, and who you matter to, that's what it's all about. It's about taking ONE day out of the year to slow the fuck down. I listen to people speak about their lives with such disdain. As if their petty, materialistic problems were at all as world shattering as they play them out to be. Be thankful for what you have. Hell, the fact that you're even reading this right now means you have some sort of internet access. That in itself shows you have it better than at least 70% of the world. I'm going to keep this post nice and simple: I'm thankful for my family. My mom and dad who've worked so hard for what they have and for what they've given me. I have parents who actually care about my sister and I, and I know there are people out there who can't say the same about their parents. I have a sister who may be the polar opposite of me, but who continues to show me that hard work and determination pays off. My friends, most of which I have met through my travels. My surrogate family. I am thankful to have been able to meet and create incredible memories with some of the most amazing people. Genuinely good people. Life has taken us down different paths for the time being, but I still carry each and every one of them in my heart. They have been there for me when my family couldn't. They've helped me learn a great deal about myself. For that, I'll be eternally grateful. So here's to you, blog reader. The food may be amazing, but remember to thank the person who spent all day busting their ass to make it. Take a second to step outside and take a deep breath. Detach yourself from the distractions that may be clouding your mind. Spend as much time with the people who matter most to you. You'll regret not doing it when you aren't able to anymore.