Forever grateful

I’m unsure if it’s like this for most people, but when I was growing up, I was often told that I was spoiled. My parents were very strict, and they were the only people who could really get under my skin. I remember that we would always get into heated arguments about finishing my schoolwork or my chores. All I wanted to do was play with my friends though. After our arguments, I would always hear them say that I was spoiled and ungrateful when I didn’t listen to them. I mean I did have a roof to live under, food, toys, and everything I wanted. I was young and thought that since all my friends in the neighborhood had everything I had, then why did they keep saying these things to me?
 
 If the person who raised you has ever told you something like this, then there is a good chance that they grew up or experienced something that you haven’t or might not ever go through. It isn’t your fault either. You were born into a life that was nothing like their life so how could you know any better? As we grow older though, if you haven’t already, I would suggest showing your gratitude. Take a second to tell them how grateful you are for everything they have done. You never know what struggle or sacrifice they went through, but if you show your gratitude then they will know they have done well. For example, my mother even though she was pregnant and in pain she didn't stop working because she wanted the best life for me when I was born. Even after I was born I have my mother to thank for spending every single day preparing me for my academic future. I have my father to thank because he would work 12 hour days, 7 times a week, to provide a source of income before I was born. He worked as a cook and doing that for 80 hours in a week is unbelievable. If I were to make a list of everything I was grateful for we would be here all day. These are just a few examples of why I'm forever grateful for my parents.

One person I never had a chance to show my gratitude for was my grandfather on my dad’s side. I mean sure I bring food to his grave and thank him, but I feel like this is my own way of showing my feelings. I never knew my grandfather. I’m grateful for him though. He was the reason why I was born in the United States. He is the reason why my family is living a healthier more wonderful life. The Nhin’s are thriving and it’s all thanks to him. If he hadn’t planned an escape from Vietnam and took the risk for a better life, then who knows how life would be for my family. Without him, my mother and father would’ve never met. If my parents never met, then I obviously wouldn’t have been born. I don’t know much about my grandfather, but I do know that he was brave and I’m forever grateful. Take today, to share your gratitude.