I do my best to not forget all that I have. I know I have so much to be thankful for, especially in these times when times are so tough for others. But I'm only 15. I have my times where I become ungrateful or just let stupid things get me down.

Such an occurance happened just a little while ago. I was told winners of a contest were contacted (a month after they were supposed to, so I had already had enough of the host) and, no surprise, I wasn't one of them. When I entered the contest, I never expected to win. But it still was disappointing. But then I thought about it. All it meant was that I had to wait an extra two months to read a book. Sure, I've already been waiting seven months. But the extra two won't kill me. What's two months compared to the other disappointments others have had today?

All around me, I know people are losing their jobs, their houses, their loved ones, their respect, and so much more. I'd much rather wait two months. Heck, I'd rather not read the book at all. With all those things that could have happened today, two months isn't asking much at all. And I'm thankful that's all I'm being asked.

I'm safe. My family is safe. We're all healthy. We have our home. We have a comfortable life. I am, my family is, we are blessed. And I'm thankful.

Sometimes, things seem unfair or just downright bad. But when you open your eyes and look past it, there is so much more to see. Not long ago, I stumbled across the website www.givesmehope.com. This website, much like the popular FMyLife.com, allows people to share stories. Unlike it's inspiration, Gives Me Hope doesn't talk about how peoples' lives suck, but how there is still good, still hope in the world.


Though still a small site, GMH has already inspired others. Www.operationbeautiful.com was inspired by a common story on GMH, telling the story of how simple little notes left by others made someone's day. I can't wait to take part.

I might have my moments. By it is all I can do to remind myself just how good I have it.

I'm guilty of listening to some pretty pointless music. And enjoying it. Most of the time, I don't mind checking out Top 40 radio. Sure, a majority of the stuff you hear on there I wouldn't even consider putting on my iPod. Still, a lot of it I hear enough times that I can sing along with it when it's on. However, I have to wonder how many people are actually listening to what they're listing to.

Not long ago, I was listening to one of two Top 40 stations that are recievable where I live. Not in a position to keep changing the station, I just listened to what came on, commercials and all. At one point, maybe the commercials would be better.  Lady GaGa's latest hit "LoveGame" came on, directly followed by Jeremih's "Birthday Sex." Both song couldn't be clearer in meaning (unless there happens to be some extremely deep meaning that noone has uncovered yet. If there is, please, I want to know!).

I admit, "LoveGame" is painfully catchy. As in it got stuck in my head for a week with no relief. But would I want my 10-year-old cousin or mom hearing it or hearing me singing it? Not one bit.  The same could be said about tons of things. But that doesn't stop me from thinking that this pushes a boundary a bit too far.

Why do the airwaves have to be clogged with music about thing better left behind closed doors when there are so many people with something to say and talent that should be heard that are ignored? Okay, the world needs it's pointless feel good music. But can't standards be drawn a little higher?