Recently, I’ve really been appreciating the small things that surround me. The smell of freshly brewed coffee, the lavender fragrance I spray in my dorm room, the sound of the wind coming through the drafty windows throughout the day, and the soft blankets I wrap myself in at night. I’m grateful I get to drive home every weekend, and feel safe in an environment I’m comfortable in and can be myself.
School can be stressful, and can bring the worst out in us. I know personally, I tend to focus on the accumulation of negative experiences that happen throughout the year like, getting a bad grade on an assignment, dealing with scattered ignorance on campus, or walking up and down the thigh-killing stairs for classes. We don’t give ourselves enough time to take in what’s around us, and cherish the experiences we make for ourselves. We have this sort of tunnel vision, waiting for the end of the semester to come, which is understandable. But we forget that there are good things around us, too.
This semester, I’ve challenged myself to show a greater appreciation for the small things in my life. I try waking up early enough to see the sun rise. I walk slowly on my way to get breakfast, noticing the birds above, and hearing the quiet hum of cars on the streets in Granville.
Before most of us leave for Thanksgiving break, I challenge you to notice three things that bring you happiness in your daily routine. Maybe it’s the colors of the leaves on a particular tree on your walk to class, or the smell of your clothes after you wash and dry them. Whatever it is, take note of why it brings you happiness, and try to do it more often.