In moments of chaos, devastation, and uncertainty, it's not hard to forget the simple things we're lucky to have and take for granted because we're so consumed with fear and panic. It doesn't matter how much of a nightmare of a reality we're residing in. What matters is that you're acknowledging what sucks and what's actually really great.
In a time when we aren't guaranteed tomorrow, it's important to reflect on the good things we've and show our appreciation for them. Over the past few weeks, I've really taken the time to focus on the things I've overlooked and have made it a priority to vocalize my appreciation of these blessings.
Here are 40 things you should never take for granted:
- Having a bed to sleep on and a roof too deep.
- Having the same “boring” schedule every day during the week. At least you're alive to reside through it.
- Having the ability to shower – even when it isn't the perfect temperature.
- The food stocked in your fridge, even if you don't like it.
- Having employment, whether you like it or not.
- The ability to hug somebody, even when it makes you uncomfortable. Sometimes physical contact is we need to feel better.
- Your health.
- Waiting in line in a grocery store – now that grocery shopping is even worse, don't you miss it?
- Going out with friends even when you don't want to.
- Commuting to work.
- Human connection, even if it breaks your heart. The benefits, joy, and comfort make it all worth it.
- Running for errands with your mom, friends, boyfriend, or anyone.
- Spontaneity.
- The stuff that entertain you, like books, movies, art, and music.
- Your education, even when it doesn't lead you to where you desire to be in life.
- Ever-changing weather patterns.
- The clothes inside your closet, even if they're from style or dated.
- Alone time.
- Holding an infant; the innocence is so pure and comforting.
- Going to a movie theater to see a new movie the very first time. What a thrill and simple joy it's!
- Getting older. We are so lucky to reside to see another year.
- Picking up junk food on the way home after a stressful day simply because you didn't feel like cooking.
- Your career, no matter what stage you're in.
- Dancing all your inhibitions away with your friends.
- Having a bad day.
- Doing something with your dad you really don't want to do, but you do it to make him happy and spend more time with him.
- Seeing waves crash against the shore.
- Family dinners, even if they're loud, crazy, awkward, along with a tight fit.
- Belting your heart out with your friends on a long drive or in the club.
- Not getting an Uber or cab and achieving to walk for a long time.
- Having to wait to get involved with a club or get a table at a restaurant.
- Going to a concert to feel the rush of live music- even when someone tall is blocking your view.
- Watching the sunset from the destination in the world.
- Fresh air.
- Having a good visit with someone you care about or even someone you aren't close with.
- Someone canceling plans or running late for any date.
- Falling in love even if it's using the wrong person.
- Opportunity. No matter how new, scary, challenging, or daunting. Try everything you possibly can because you've been fortunate enough for it to be a possibility.
- Saying “I love you” to a person or everyone you’re close to.
- All of these wonderful things together, and just how lucky you are to have them all.
I won't lie, writing this list made me extremely emotional. I found myself typing it with tears streaming down my face along with a heaviness in my chest. What I wouldn't do in order to have the ability to do these things right now. It really put things into perspective for me, and I hope you can find the power and strength to create a listing of your own.
Things will calm down and they will get better. But whenever we finally acquire some normalcy again, please remember no to take these things for granted ever again. We'll have lived through a horrible some time and if that can't help you see with more clarity and appreciation for the great things we're lucky to possess, nothing will.
I hope you find a way to come out of this darkness and see the bright light on the other side. There may be a flicker, but it is still a start. Hang in there.
