Congratulations everyone! We’ve made it to the official midterm of the fall semester and the year’s almost over. Let’s face it, some of us have mentally checked out of classes since before midterms started and our holiday break countdown began the moment you took or graded your last midterm. Though you’ve been anticipating your break, have you really reflected on what you’re grateful for?
The Thanksgiving Holiday isn’t only about a week long vacation; it’s a time to let all of your grace and blessings resonate.
As college students our wishes or prayers are usually for things like tuition being paid, housing being covered, passing that really difficult and demanding class or having free time to enjoy yourself. Not that those areas don’t deserve attention, but there are greater needs to be grateful for.
As you’re walking to class take the time to look around you and soak in your surroundings. Those panhandlers could easily be you; could you imagine not knowing where you’re going to sleep or where your next meal is going to come from or when your next meal is?
If you’re upset because your car isn’t brand new, look at the number of people boarding the MARTA bus or walking. You’re only a part time student? There are people who can’t even afford to consider college as an option. Your family isn’t able to travel? Some people don’t have any family members to visit. The list of examples could go on and on, but I think you get the point.
No, I’m not perfect and yes, I’m guilty of complaining of the things I don’t have, but when I look at some of my peers, coworkers, professors or anyone else struggling I’m immediately humbled.
We focus so much on what we’re lacking individually that we don’t realize we’re taking so much for granted; someone as close as your best friend or roommate can easily be praying for the “nothing” or “little” that you have.
So how do we alleviate this feeling of being short-changed? Instead of saying thank you, go give someone else reasons to say “thank you.” Visit the local soup kitchens, churches, homeless shelters and help serve Thanksgiving Day dinners.
Your roommate can’t afford to travel back home? Invite them over to your family’s dinner. Regardless of your religion or belief, try to be a blessing to someone.
I hope you all enjoy your break and I wish you all the happiest of Thanksgivings!
