Appreciate the Little Things

As I sit here on the grass of my college campus, I am reminded of the little things in life that we oh so often forgot. Whether these things just become so normal that we forgot or we simply focus on the negative that the positive things just slide right on by unnoticed. I want to take this time to acknowledge the things I so often forget.
- The gorgeous day here. Living in the Midwest my whole life, I sometimes take nice spring days like today for granted.

- The daily text from my mom and/or dad just saying have a good day or good night.

- The long talks I have with my 3 roommates about life, faith, homework, boys, friends, etc. I sometimes don't remember how lucky I am to have 3 fantastic roomies and life-long friends.

- The random facebook posts from friends saying they miss me or just wanted to say hi. I know it makes my day when I see them.

- The fact that twitter can keep me entertained for hours.

- All the electronic devices I use every day that many don't have the privilege of using or owning.

-The fitness center I forgot about or don't use when I'm being lazy. Good thing is that it's only a minute from my apartment door.

- The job I have working with inner city kids. I sometimes lose sight of the fact that my being there is a great help to them and a great opportunity for me to be a positive role model to kids who need one.

- The fact that I am sitting at this amazing University with the opportunity to gain an education. I am forever grateful to my parents for the private schools they sent me to growing up because without it, I am positive I would not have got into the U or been able to survive & thrive here.

And now for a few funny little things
- The ping pong balls I keep finding around the apartment as a reminder of the last party we had.

- The vase of fake flowers in the living room to show that real flowers are dead within a day of being here.

- The pictures that show what it looks like to have random theme nights.

- The package of margarita salt that reminds me that tequila is not my favorite.

So as this day turns into night and we make our way into Spring, take time to remember the little (or big) things we often don't acknowledge. I know that I am not alone in this. After all, it's the little things in life that can bring us the most joy.

AJ

"There is no finish line." ~Nike