Today, in this fast-paced, high-tech world we live in, we tend to disregard the beauty that surrounds us.  We’re too busy with work and school.  We’re too stressed out and tired to literally stop and smell the roses.  When was the last time you took time out of your day and went to a quiet, secluded area (such as your backyard, a hammock surrounded by trees, a field, or a lake)?  It’s been a while, hasn’t it?  We often take for granted the beauty of this magnificent planet on which we dwell.  

You are constantly surrounded by beauty, even at night.  When was the last time you took a moment, went outside, and just looked up at the stars?  Or dug your telescope out from the back of your closet, set it up, and took a good look at the moon, or other planets?  Chances are, you would be pretty sad or upset if, one evening, you discovered there were no stars or moon in the sky.  We take simple (yet complex) things such as the moon, stars, sun, and clouds for granted too often.      

Picture this: 

There’s no sun.

No clouds.

No moon and no stars.

No trees.

No electricity.

No running water.

No forms of telecommunication.

No TV, no computers, no cell phones, or cameras.

No food.

And no roof over your head.

How long do you think you could survive under the aforementioned conditions?  Not too long I bet.  Especially with no food or celestial bodies…

Every little thing that surrounds you is a reason (big or small) why you’re alive or living the way you are right now.

Even so, we take every single thing that is on that list for granted every day.  

Except for today.       

Because I ask this of you…

Just take a minute, and make a list of everything you’re thankful for.  EVERYTHING.  By the time you’re finished, that list should be at least a page or two long if you put some thought into it.  

Here, I’ll get you started:

1.) Be thankful that you’re alive and breathing.

2.) Be thankful you have people in your life that love you dearly whether you realize it or not.

3.) Be thankful that the sun comes up every morning.

4.) Be thankful that there is beauty in absolutely everything.

If you feel you don’t have time to stop and take in the elegance of the world around you, make time.  

Even so, if you don’t write out the list tomorrow, or even the next day, at least write it out in time for Thanksgiving.  For isn’t that what Thanksgiving’s all about?  Giving thanks for your life and the people who are in it?