So Many Things to Be Thankful For

This year has been full of its ups and downs. Unfortunately, there have been more downs than ups as of late. The economy is in a horrible state right now. Millions of people in the United States and around the world are out of jobs. People are living paycheck-to-paycheck and robbing Peter to pay Paul. Unemployment is currently at 10.2 percent the highest since April 1983, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite everything that is going on in the world right now, I have many things to be thankful.

I graduated from college in May of this year and I know many recent graduates who are still without a job. I am so grateful to have a job. Yes, a job! I have one that I enjoy. It helps me pay off those pesky student loans and my other bills. If my car needs to be fixed or serviced I can afford it.

Millions of Americans don't have healthcare. For some that do have it, the coverage is inadequate. I am thankful I have excellent healthcare coverage. I can make an appointment with my doctor, dentist, or optometrist and not bat an eyelash. Any medications or special treatments I need are adequately covered.

There are many people who don't have a place to call home. I live in Dallas and I have driven by local shelters many times and have seen long lines of people waiting for beds. In those lines are the faces of children and babies. I am thankful that I can afford a nice place to live. I am thankful I am not standing in a line at a shelter hoping that I can get a bed for the night.

There have been many news stories about brutal beatings and murders that have shaken me to the core. In Florida a teenager was set on fire by five teens from his school. Of course, there's the death of Shaniya Davis. This story in particular really broke my heart. These stories make me thank God that my family and friends are safe, happy, and healthy. I am thankful I can hug them, see their smiling faces, and talk to them.

This year I have been more reflective than every. Things that I once took for granted I now cherish with all my heart during this rough patch in our nation. I am much better off than many others. For that I am truly thankful.

Source(s)
Employment Summary Situation
Bureau of Labor Statistics