For my columns this month, I will examine the things in my life for which I am thankful. Since elementary school, I have been taught that November is the month to assess the things in my life and take a moment to say thank you.

This Wednesday is Veteran’s day, and I feel that it is important to start by thanking the men and women in the armed forces for defending our country and securing our freedoms.

I thank my late grandfather, John Fenton. During WWII, he served as a repairman for the radios in the airplanes. The funny thing about his job was that he was colorblind, matching up the colored wires. It may not have been on the front lines, but his job was just as important.

As cheesy as it may sound, I am really thankful to live in this country. Despite your politics, this country is a really wonderful place to live. I have rights that are not necessarily practiced around the world. I have the opportunity to move, far from my parents and my previous dependency on them, to a new place where I can live comfortably on my own. I am able to wear clothing or style my hair how I see fit for the day, can voice my opinions freely and can be self-sufficient.

Although it is difficult at times, I try to keep things in perspective. Even a bad day here isn’t really that bad. I still have a place, that at the end of the day, I call home. A place with a warm shower, working stove and oven, refrigerator with food, comfortable bed, cable television, internet access and heating or air conditioning units.

As I continue to examine the things in my life for which I am thankful, take a moment to look at your life. There is something for you to be thankful as well.