Think back to the last time you were asked the question, “How are you?” Chances are, your response included the word “busy.” And I don’t blame you. You probably have more obligations than you know what to do with. School alone could be your full time job. Add sorority or fraternity commitments to that, and you have no free time. Add a social life, and now you’re not even looking at enough time to sleep. You are busy.

But when was the last time you stopped to enjoy the busyness? When did you last appreciate how much you love doing the things you’re doing? Remember when you decided to commit to the things that now fill your schedule? You were ecstatic. You loved being a part of an incredible school, a stellar organization, or even a group of friends. And as a result, you poured your heart into them. But now the shine has worn off, and it’s common to view the things you once longed to be a part of as obligations. How come we find ourselves complaining about doing things we love doing? As college students, we get to spend time with our favorite people, doing our favorite things, exploring endless possibilities, and yet we are discontent. We find ourselves saying, “If only I make it through this week, everything will be okay.” Let’s enjoy this week! Let’s be grateful for an education and a community of friends. Here are some practical ways we can do that.

Take joy in studying.

Remember how lucky you are to be receiving this education and enjoy it! Find friends in your major and study with them. If you aren’t enjoying the work you’re doing, take the time to re-evaluate and make the most of the opportunities you’ve been given.

Take joy in extracurricular obligations.

Intramural sports, committee meetings, even work. You chose to be here for a reason, so have a blast as you fulfill that reason.

Take joy in your friendships.

These people are your family, and even if you get tired of them some days, you couldn’t survive without them. You will miss the days when you could enjoy each others' company constantly.

So today I will refuse to pity myself simply because I'm busy. I'll roll down the windows in my car and enjoy the ride instead of rushing to get where I'm going, because the present is not something to wish away. I want to look back on these days without regretting that I missed out on what was right in front of me. There is purpose in the present, so let’s make the most of the time we’ve been given, folks.