42nd Street

Lucky. Or privileged. I'm not sure which word would describe it more, but that's how I'm feeling. It seems as if everyday I realize more and more just how amazing life can be if you're looking to see the good sides of it. I've realized there are so many things to smile about everyday, even if they are just simple things. Everyday I smile either because I'm thinking about something I'm lucky to have, or because I'm laughing about something one of my amazing friends or family members has said. There are a million things I could list here, and I'm not sure why it has taken me 19 years to figure this all out, and I've probably still got miles to go. But I know this for sure: when I'm walking down 42nd street back to Osol, I realize that I have a hell of a lot more than the man who is walking by me in tattered clothes, or the child who is being walked by his teenage mother. And I need to be thankful for that - we all do. I've finally learned to appreciate it all. From the Nike's I wear on my feet, to the sweatshirts that keep me warm, to the education I get everyday, and the people that love me, I am very, very privileged. Perhaps this is why religion is taught - I don't know for sure. But having been a Catholic for a number of years and knowing basic concepts behind other religions, I can see that it is obvious that many religious teachings are there to encourage people to be grateful for what they have. Maybe some people need religion and God to point that out for them. I don't. All I needed was time, a little maturity, and a walk down 42nd street to show me that not everyone shares the privileges I do.

"Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued."

-Socrates