When we think of Christmas, we immediately think of packed malls, the rushing around trying to buy presents for all of our friends and loved ones, and overall the commercialized Christmas we experience these days.
I'm not writing this article to preach hating commercialized Christmas--I do love the presents and the gift giving as much as the next girl- I just don't look forward to Christmas the same way I used to when I was a little girl.
I always loved Christmas Eve growing up; I got to eat minestrone soup, watch "A Christmas Story", and sleep in the same room as my two older brothers (a rare occurrence) with the excitement of presents and Christmas looming over my thoughts as I tried to sleep.
Now I am 19 and in college, my oldest brother is in medical school in Virginia and just got married and is starting his own family, while my other brother is graduating college next semester and will be taking on the adult world.
It is hard to get all three of us in the same state at the same time with all of our crazy schedules, so this Christmas I am truly looking forward to spending quality time with my brothers.
They are my role models and my best friends, and I am thankful that I get to spend quality time with both of them this Christmas--even if it means we aren't sleeping three to a room anymore.
Growing up and growing apart because of age and distance is an unfortunate thing that happens with siblings, but it just makes the time we do have together all the more special.
I often get caught up in the rush of everything--whether it's studying for finals, worrying about money or my career, etc. Sometimes I forget to think about my blessings.
Some kids have to spend their Christmas in hospitals fighting for their lives. Some people don't have the means to travel home and be with family on holidays.
I forget how fortunate I am to be healthy. I forget how blessed I am that I have the opportunity to attend a University and get an education. I forget how blessed I am to be able to see my family around the holidays.
So, this Christmas I am truly looking forward to giving back.
Whether it is something as small as giving a gift to someone struggling or volunteering at a shelter/hospital, it's something I feel I need to do. Even though I know volunteering and giving back is something that should be done throughout the year, it is something I am looking forward to this season.
We college students take for granted huge blessings day to day...stop and be grateful this Christmas that you are healthy and able to attend college. It is stressful and hellish at times, but remember that it is a privilege.
Yes, an Apple watch is nice don't get me wrong; but spend some time cherishing the things you may take for granted this Christmas. Whether it is spending time with family or just being healthy, be grateful and have a very Merry Christmas!
