It’s Hard Not to Be Thankful This Year

There’s almost nothing I can think of that I’m not thankful for. This has been an absolutely amazing year. Ordinarily about this time I’d be putting together a list of people and things that I’m particularly thankful for, but even that is difficult because my life has been turned around like crazy this year (in all good ways) and there’s no way I could list everyone and everything that’s had such an incredible impact on me. But I’ll make a quick, feeble attempt at it anyway.

• My parents. I’m a firm believer that anyone and everyone’s list should almost always begin with this. My parents do so much for me, and there’s no way (literally) I could be the person I am today without them. This year not only have they helped foot the bill for my study abroad insanity, but they’ve been a constant support through the stresses of spring semester, my successes and failures with internship applications, jobs, and school, and even some issues in my more personal life. While I like to think that many of my accomplishments are products of my own hard work, I owe most, if not all, of it to them and they deserve some serious recognition for that.
• My friends. Both old and new, they’ve always been there for me and nothing has changed this year. I’ve had a blast with my old friends and it’s been amazing getting to know new ones, both at home and abroad. Thanks to all of you for everything you do.
• The people in Senator Reid’s office and at the American Legacy Foundation. My two internships this year were some of the greatest experiences of my entire life and I know they helped me learn, change and grow all for the better. In Senator Reid’s office I learned how exhilarating life is on Capitol Hill and deepened my interest in politics and political issues. At the American Legacy Foundation I learned fundamental communications skills, built friendships to last a lifetime and had an absolute blast through it all. Thanks to everyone for all you’ve done for me. I hope I can pay it back some day!
• Twitter. Is it geeky? Yes. Is it so incredibly typical of me (for those of you who know me)? Yes. But you know what? Twitter has been a driving force in my communications career and learning this year, and I’m incredibly grateful for the service and all the friends I’ve made through it. It’s been amazing learning every single day; starting conversations with professionals from all walks of life, from all over the globe; and even discovering new opportunities through the service. As I’ve gone from a measly 50 followers to well over 700, I’ve discovered the joys of expanding a network of both professional contacts and friends. Thank you all for the opportunities you’ve given me, the information you’ve shared, the laughs we’ve all had (most recently, like this one), and each and every little 140-character conversation. Looking forward to many more conversations and connections.

Like I said, I have absolutely no chance of going through each and every person and experience I’m thankful for this year. But this is a start. Thanks to everyone out there for reading, following, and for allowing me to know you and learn from you.

Happy Thanksgiving.