Skip to main content

Giving Thanks

Teen Voices by Isabella Dussias

As Thanksgiving is upon us, it is important to reflect on the good things we have in our lives. 

Recently, I interviewed some of my teenage friends and asked them what they are thankful for. There was no surprise in the range of answers. The overwhelming response was family, followed by friends, teachers, coaches and mentors. Many said they were thankful for their education and their home.

I know sometimes it may seem that we teens are self-absorbed and only concerned about our microcosm of friends and social activities, but deep down we have a strong appreciation for the most important things that we have in this life. I myself am thankful for not only my parents, but also my extended family of grandparents and uncles and aunts, who offer me a different perspective of life than my parents teach me. I feel very lucky to be part of an interconnected and nurturing family that has helped shape who I have become. I even had the gift of having great grandparents until I was about 8 years old. They grew up in the depression and were veterans of WWII. I learned a lot of countless lessons at a young age when I reflect on the time spent with them. 

So, when your teen is rushing around, texting and scurrying off to their next practice or school dance, realize that you are not under-appreciated, but are very over-appreciated in silence. 

I am very thankful for everything I have, especially family. I’m sure your teen is too. 

Isabella Dussias is a 16-year-old singer-songwriter/composer from New Jersey. She enjoys writing about issues that are important to today’s youth, and she believes music is an important outlet to connect people and share messages through the creativity of lyric and melody. For more information, please visit IsabellaDussias.com.


gratitude Thanksgiving Local Insights Teen Voices Song Writer November 2019 Teen Writer Writer

 

 

Upcoming Events Near You
The Tick Tackler Tutor: Three Impactful Tick Remediation Strategies for the Homeowner

By Jennifer Meisenbacher

Did you know most tick bites occur in and around the home—and that ticks spend more than 95% of their life off a host?

With more than 19 years of field experience, Tick Tackler offers a practical, easy-to-follow approach that empowers homeowners to significantly reduce tick activity on their properties. From gardening and yard work to children’s play areas, this guide outlines essential adjustments to help protect your outdoor spaces from ticks.

The Tick Tackler Tutor introduces three impactful strategies designed to identify high-risk areas and minimize exposure. These methods are versatile and adaptable—whether you’re a homeowner, pet owner, beekeeper, or managing a larger property such as a doggy daycare or horse farm.

Inside, readers will discover how education leads to confidence, how small changes can yield visible results, and how breaking tick control into manageable steps restores a sense of control. The book simplifies complex concepts into three core strategies, guiding readers in creating a personalized plan to reduce tick activity effectively.

For those eager to reclaim their yards but unsure where to begin, this guide delivers clear, actionable solutions. Transform your outdoor environment into a safer, more enjoyable space for family, pets, and everyday living.

Available now on Amazon.

Follow Us On Facebook