I am just eighteen.

Yet I have lived through history:

First black president,

Ebola virus,

Lots of inventions that came and went,

Self-driving cars,

Genetic engineering,

Oh and Pluto no longer seems that far.

 

Can’t forget stem cell research.

Cancer, cells, diseases,

We’re finally putting together the pieces.        

However,

It doesn’t matter the advancement of modern technology

because nothing stirred up as much attention

as peas in guacamole.

 

Gay marriage,

Solar energy,

Now look there:

Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana in a carriage.

 

Life is great.

Walk down the grocery aisle

and you’ll see

myriad choice and variety.

If this isn’t privilege,

think about Africa’s children

who suffer from malnutrition and lack of tutelage.

I am thankful for my country

despite its flaws—

Vain squabbles, frequent discord, and imperfect laws.

Don’t forget prejudice and racial slurs.

But for everything there is a cure.

 

Despite the defects and blemishes in life,

I remember what my grandfather tells me about strife:

It happens to every human being.

There’s nothing to fear.                    

Like joy and sadness and every feeling,

difficulties exist. 

Natural disasters, financial worries, health concerns

No need to remind you, you get the gist.

 

It’s just amazing how insignificant problems can appear

once you grab a happiness that’s always near.

No matter what you’re going through,

there’s always one thing you can do.       

 

Remember what is awesome.

 

College tuition, mental stress, incessant worrying.

These things plague me,

but as soon as I grab my nearby happiness, they’re soon leaving.

 

Grandma’s jokes, Grandpa’s wisdom,

Mom’s love and tunes I hum.

Remembering these—which are always in my memories—

is one of my happiness’ keys.        

 

The news can be depressing and problems are everywhere.

But remember the positives

because they are ALWAYS there.

 

I remind myself

I am one lucky lady

To live through history.

I am one lucky lady

To be attending a university.

I am one lucky lady

To have a wonderful family.

 

Remember the history you’ve lived through

Remember the accomplishments you have pulled

Remember the privileges you have

Remember the things that make you laugh

 

You’re amazing and you’re living.

Don’t let your positive thoughts go missing.

 

Yes life’s struggles are more than just troublesome,

but when you take time to pull out all the positives,

You’re left with what is awesome.

 

Life.