Despite getting my flu shot, drinking lots of water, and washing my hands as much as possible, I have still managed to catch some sort of cold. Which, as a university student, is pretty much one of the worst things to happen, especially during midterm season. I tried to 'say no' to the sickness, but it overtook me anyways. However, through the challenges that sickness has presented me with, I have discovered some things that I think are good to be reminded of once in a while:

1. Having all 5 senses is something we take for granted.

Like, seriously. My sense of smell is absolutely zero, my hearing feels kind of off, I can't taste things as well as usual... these are things that I usually just assume will be working right for me. Even though I will probably go back to taking these things for granted once I am healthy, I am definitely reminded that these are things to be thankful for day to day, because life without them is such a diminished experience.

2. Grit is a valuable trait.

Being able to slog through studying, homework, and reports when all you really feel like doing is collapsing into a pile of blankets, pillows, and Kleenex, is not a trait to be looked over! Even though in this situation there are no dire consequences, except for some perhaps sub-par homework grades, it definitely is valuable to be able to push yourself through doing things, even when you don't feel like it. By practicing this act of self-discipline, it most likely will be much more easily accessible in a moment where it is really needed.

3. Knowing people care about you makes a mountain of difference.

Being sick can often bring on a feeling of exhaustion and defeat, like everything is too hard and you have to face it on your own. However, I have found yet once again, an immense appreciation for the people that check in on you, that demonstrate that they care how you are doing, even in just a tiny gesture like giving you a hug. When you are feeling your lowest, having people genuinely care about you is one of the best feelings there can be, and this should not be looked over either.

4. Lemon ginger tea is the bomb.

From someone who used to adamantly declare my hatred for tea, this is saying something. But seriously, lemon ginger tea is what has been getting me through this week.

5. Everybody having access to proper healthcare is something that shouldn't be negotiable.

With a passion for global work, and as someone going into medicine, this should be a no-brainer, but even having this little cold reminded me of why this is so important. My ability to function, to work, to think, even to socialize, has been compromised by a stupid little cold-- how can we expect people to live a regular productive lives if they are being forced to live with disease? It's silly to think that is okay, and working towards making changes on this front is a foundation that is so important around the world, for any other kind of growth to occur.

So even though I will be very ready to be fully healthy again, there were a few things I was reminded of through being sick that are good things to remember-- and the next time you are sick, maybe you can remember them as well!