The Thankful List

All the cool kids are doing it.

Family
Ok, we're weird. I admit it. But this bond will never be broken. I don't think anyone understands us-- I don't think I even understand us. But I'm really glad we're together, and I know we always will be. No matter what, we are in it for the long haul, and I love you. We're a crazy bunch... and it rocks. Know that I am always praying for you... always, always, always.

InterVarsity
Oh my gosh. I don't even want to think of where I'd be without this amazing group of people. I have found a true community in them all, and though I still have trouble connecting, I know that when it all comes down to it, everyone does accept me. I'm still trying to break down the walls I build around myself and get closer to everyone, but still, you're all fantastic. I have never met a more transparent group of people, and who are so dedicated to following Jesus. You help me keep going the right direction, so thanks.

Jeremy and Jessica
Ok, I mentioned IV already, and all the staff are AMAZING beyond words, but specifically Jeremy's leadership has had a really big impact on my life. I've grown a lot over the past year or two, and Jeremy has pushed me along the way, and helped me to stretch myself, and to trust that God will catch me. I really, truly appreciate the love that Jeremy and Jessica pour into all of us. Jessica is wonderful too, and I really look up to her as a woman, a mother, a person following God. She's fantastic.

Education
I have been blessed with a wonderful education. My family has encouraged me to learn, my teachers have supported me and encouraged me to reach my potential, and my schools have all taught me a lot over the years. I know how lucky I am to be one of the 1% in the world to recieve a college education, and I know that it is largely due to the people who have supported me. I pray that I can use my education to God's glory, even though I may not know what that is yet.

Consciousness
I am thankful that I am beginning to wake up, to see the forces that try to control the minds of me and my generation. They tell us to buy, to consume, to look out for yourself. Get ahead. You are number one. Do whatever it takes to come out ahead... and while you're at it, buy our product. Don't ask where it came from. It's not important.
And to this, I say NO. I am regaining my consciousness. I am fighting back, and you cannot control me any longer. I am stepping away from this garbage, and reclaiming my life. You will not force me into your traps, and I will never be complacent living in ignorance. For this, though it causes me sadness, grief, and even discomfort... I am thankful.

Kids
Kids are amazing. I am having baby cravings like woah... haha. Every time I see a child, I am struck by their beauty, their innocence, their unique perspectives on the world... I am in love with every child I see. They make me so happy. I have been daydreaming about my future kids... will they be boys? Girls? Will they look like me? My future husband? Will they come from another country altogether? Whoever they are, I look forward to the day I can finally meet them. I feel like I love them already... It sounds weird, but I don't care, it's the truth. I'm not sure about a lot of things in my future, but I know that I will be a mother. Of this, I am completely sure.

Theresa
She holds a special place in my heart... one of the VERY few people that has stuck by all my bad choices, my crazy schemes, my ignorance, my panic attacks, my heartbreaks... and through it all, has never betrayed me. Theresa, you've seen me at my worst, but you always give me your best. I don't know where I'd be without you.

Ryan
Yeah... it's true. I love him. I'll spare you the gooey details, but he has been an amazing friend, and a really wonderful boyfriend. We've grown a lot, and I hope that we can continue to grow together. Thanks for sticking around. :)

God
The ultimate in sticking around through the hard times... You are amazing. Thank you for your constant presence in my life, even back when I thought I didn't want you around. You have been seeking me out from the beginning. I know this to be true, and I don't know why... but all I can do is thank you.

That's all I'm gonna write tonight... thanks for listening.