We’re finally there! The notorious American holiday stemming from the event when the Native Americans and pilgrims ceased fighting and met peacefully on the grounds of something everyone can relate to: overeating. Centuries later, we’re still celebrating with our loved ones. Thanksgiving is especially cherished by most college students as a time to finally relax, come home and see everyone that we’ve missed. Unfortunately, the holidays can come with an array of stressful situations. Annoying relatives? Assignments? Studying? We all have them. As college students, however, despite any qualms we might have, we should be thankful for our many blessings in disguise during the holidays.
“Those” Relatives
Annoying relatives? Yes, we all have them! Your uncle who drinks too much and makes everyone kind of uncomfortable? That one cousin who doesn’t stop bragging about their grades? Your aunt that scoffs at your nose ring? Oh, and every relative that asks you why you don’t have a boyfriend/girlfriend yet? Alright, perhaps you’re already annoyed just reading this and I apologize. But just as disdainful you might be of some of your relatives, at least find happiness in the fact that you have relatives at all. A lot of people don’t have any family to spend time with during the holidays. Some of them are intolerable, but most of them also love you. Take a few breaths every third Thursday in November to count your relatives as blessings.
Tough Professors
The semester is almost over and we’ve already picked out those professors that we swear are out to fail us. But even if they seem like the most evil people on earth, they are only trying to prepare us for the real world. On Thanksgiving, be thankful for these people. Understand how much hard work they put into the class; the grading, the teaching and even the learning. Also, be especially thankful for the fact that you have the privilege of being in classes at all. Think of all of those around the world who would happily enroll in a class with your most loathed professor.
Assignments/Projects
Similar to point number 2, we should all be grateful for our schoolwork. It exists to strengthen our knowledge and to help us succeed. Yes, it’s tedious, but it’s not pointless. And again, it is a privilege to even be able to do assignments and projects. During Thanksgiving Break, as you’re forcing yourself to open up your computers and work on assignments, realize how lucky you are. I know it’s hard. I’m working on several as I type this.
Gaining Weight
With the holidays comes the inevitability of putting on some extra weight. This feeling after stuffing our faces with pie and stuffing is surely unwanted by most. But as we struggle to fit in our jeans in the subsequent days, be thankful that we have enough food to even gain weight. There are millions around the world who struggle with poverty and hunger. Whether we like it or not, holiday weight gain is a luxury. Remember this as you put in some extra hours at the gym after the holidays!
Remember during this holiday season that you have a lot of blessings to be thankful for as a college student. You may not have all of the privileges listed above but even having a couple means you’re truly blessed. Have a comment to add about what you’re thankful for? Drop it below!
