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, textin, 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.