Lessons In Being Thankful | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

Lessons In Being Thankful

Start saying "thank you" and really meaning it

8
Lessons In Being Thankful
YouTube

It has been more than a year since I went abroad. I know what you’re thinking, “Shut up already about study abroad” and I promise this isn’t going to be some whiny piece about how much I miss it and how much I wish I were back in Florence. I could easily go there but I won’t.

About a month or so ago when I was home still, I was sitting in my living room and my mom walked in and asked how I was and I said sad because it was that day that one year ago I had departed for Rome. She laughed at me and I didn’t understand why until she said I should be thankful for the experience I had the opportunity to have. Obviously I have never taken that experience for granted or not been thankful for it, but I guess when I look back on it, I simply just miss it and miss being there on the surface.

So now I am making a true effort to be thankful for my time spent abroad. Instead of saying “I miss Italy” I will change my tune to “I am thankful I went to Italy”.

This applies to other aspects in my life as well, even the little things. When I have loads upon loads of homework to do, instead of complaining, I will try instead to really think about why I have the homework that I do and then therefore be thankful for the opportunity to have a good education. I don’t think that I necessarily take things for granted so much as just overlook what I do have and the experiences that I have had the chance to do.

This month has also been a little extra difficult for my family and I because it marked the 2nd year without my uncle. That especially is hard to apply to my new promise of thankfulness but I still try because as hard as it is now without him, I am so, so thankful for the years I had him in my life.

I am thankful for my family and my friends and perhaps don’t tell them that enough. I think a lot of people—myself included—have the tendency to forget to tell our loved ones that we love them; we care about them and think about them, even when we do. We just assume that they know and although they probably do not need the reassurance, it is always nice to get it regardless.

I offhandedly will say “Thank you” to strangers who hold the door, professors who pass out papers, and grocery clerks who ring me up. I always mean it, obviously, but I want to start putting more meaning into my thank yous. I want to say it and think it and mean it.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

18425
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7836
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5731
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4970
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments