Thanksgiving is a great time to remind yourself of all the things in your life that you should be grateful for. Ideally, you should be reminding yourself of these things more frequently than on an annual basis, but at the very least, Turkey Day is a perfect time to reflect. I made a list of seven things we should all be grateful for (if the situation applies):
1. Gluten-free stuffing.
Although mashed potatoes (and gravy) are the best Thanksgiving dish, stuffing is also a staple. When my friend Lexi let me try some of the gluten free stuffing she made, I knew I had to take a moment to appreciate that someone had developed a good stuffing recipe for all the gluten-sensitive people eagerly awaiting Turkey Day Dinner.
2. Your brother/sister finishing the SATs/applying to college.
My brother has been working hard to complete his college application, which includes writing several essays, submitting standardized test scores, and filling out endless information about extracurricular activities (as we all know too well). Although he still hasn’t completed his entire application, I am so happy and thankful he has finally finished the SATs – a test that I know was causing him a lot of stress.
3. Your brother/sister coming home for the holidays.
For those of you that don’t know, my sister has been teaching English in the rural town of Yecheon, South Korea, for more than a year now. She’s been adjusting to life in another country by learning more of the language (Korean), eating authentic food, and tutoring kids in her free time. Last year has been hard for both of us, because we always spend the holidays together. This year, she will still be missing Thanksgiving and Christmas, (and the Super Bowl) but she is making it back just in time for my 21st birthday. I miss my sister so much, and I am excited I get to see her again in four months. I'm sure many of you are looking forward to reuniting with your siblings as well!
4. Study buddies.
It has been hard for me to stay motivated this quarter…perhaps it is because of studying abroad and traveling during most of the summer; the transition back to school was rough, to say the least. Fortunately, we all have those friends, the reliable people in our lives, who remind us to stay on track and and stay focused. My study buddies have helped me earn good grades (so far) in my classes.
5. Your boyfriend/girlfriend.
From binge watching endless episodes of House (or whatever your Netflix show of choice is) to cuddling after a rough day, your bae is always there to cheer you up or congratulate you when you're doing well. I am thankful to have such a caring and supportive boyfriend by my side.
6. Your best friends through thick and thin.
I know everyone says their best friends are the best, but seriously, they are truly the best. Mine keep me positive, motivated, and honest. They help me fight my anxiety, listen to/advise me on all of my struggles, and always remind me to take care of myself. They see and bring out the best in me, and inspire me to work harder. Whether it’s a chai tea when I really need it, or a shoulder to cry on, my best friends are always there for me and know how to help. We all have those friends that are there for you through everything -- take the time to thank them and tell them how much they mean to you.
7. Having a home to go back to over Thanksgiving break.
I recognize that I am in a position of privilege, simply by having a home to go back to, as well as being able to receive such a wonderful education here at UW. Especially amid all the current turmoil in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, I know that I am fortunate to feel the safety that I do. That is why I strongly support Governor Inslee’s desire to welcome refugees: I understand not everyone has that same luxury. It is our duty as human beings to feel compassion for others and act accordingly. If you agree, please consider taking time to show your support by signing the online petition and/or donating if you are in a position to do so.
Our country was first settled by people seeking refuge from religious persecution. We cannot turn our backs to others in need if we are capable of helping them. Please don’t let scare tactics stop you from making the compassionate decision – the refugees must go through an extensive screening process before receiving an acceptance, and they need our support. This Thanksgiving, I am reflecting on how much I have and how I can try and share it with others. I hope you will do the same.
