Spread the Gratitude

I am so absolutely fortunate every single day of my life. Though I, like every human to ever have lived, still face struggles and challenges in my life, these obstacles are manageable. I am grateful for this and many other things in my life, though I know I could always be more expressive in this gratitude. I figure today on Thanksgiving is as good a time as any to evaluate all the wonderful things in my life, as well as what I can do with my life to bring a little fortune to others.

1. I'm thankful for my opportunities for higher education. I love Seattle University and everything that comes with being a college student.

         How I can spread the gratitude: Most universities accept donations to their scholarship funds (merit, sports, or other) by alumni. Access to higher education shouldn't be determined by access to a certain kind of finances.

2. I'm thankful for art as a way to keep my emotions in check and express myself. I may not be a very good painter, but I really do like it!
        How I can spread the gratitude: There are countless programs that let artists of all skill levels volunteer to spread creativity and love for art to those who may not have other opportunities to engage in art.

3. I'm thankful for my giant & crazy family... And for being able to see them at least once a year!

      How I can spread the gratitude: Some kids aren't lucky enough to have great role models in their cousins or other relatives, but there are plenty of programs that offer these kids with volunteers that can serve as an extended family!

4. I'm thankful for the great food I get around the holiday season and the wonderful friends and family I have to share it with.

     How I can share the gratitude: Organizations that feed the homeless always need volunteers and donations, especially around the holiday season.

5. I'm thankful for how frequently I'm able to travel. I love being able to see the world and experience things different from what I'm used to. Plus, there are some really beautiful places out there!

      How I can share the gratitude: As a past exchange student myself, I love the idea of giving back to other exchange students either by hosting or helping sponsor an exchange student.

Luxe says... "I'm thankful for having a loving and caring home!" Living on the streets and in animal shelters is hard, especially compared to the love that comes with a stable home environment.

      How I can share the gratitude: Volunteering at local animal shelters and donating food to animal shelters helps out our furry friends an awful lot.

I'm thankful for an awful lot in my life, and Thanksgiving is the perfect excuse for me to express and share that gratitude. What do you do with the things in your life that you're grateful for?