It's getting to be that time of year again. The time to buy overpriced school books, to lose sleep, to cram in last minute visits with friends. Yep, you guessed it - it's back to school season!
Going back to school brings both feelings of excitement and dread. I'm looking forward to seeing my friends again on a regular basis, but I'm not looking forward to the long commute and endless homework and studying.
It happens at the end of every summer — you remember that list of people you wanted to get together with, the list of to-do projects you intended to complete. And how many items on your lists are checked off? Not many.
There's a disease that spreads like wildfire every August among students. That's right, the back-to-school blues. And, since teachers aren't going to suddenly decide to add an extra three months of summer vacation, very little can cure this disease.
It's important, when you come down with a case of the back-to-school blues, that you find things that make you happy. Things that can keep your mind off the negatives of the impending school year. Focus on the positive! Sure, going back to school might mean pulling all-nighters to get homework done. But that means you could try a new type of coffee! You might wind up in a class with nobody you know. So you get the chance to meet some new friends.
A new school year brings so many new opportunities. Chances to meet new people, to learn new things. It's such a fun part of growing up. Sure, the ratio of schoolwork to rest time might not be even, but you can pull through. Manage your time, and you'll be able to balance homework, rest, and social time.
When summer first starts, the summer blues sometimes hits people. We miss having a regular routine, and are willing to sit in class if it means seeing your friends on a regular basis. Then, by the time a new school year starts, we don't want to go back to school. I know it can be hard, but I encourage each of us to try and focus on enjoying whatever season it is, whether it be summer or the school year.
As the new school year starts, do something new. Join a club on campus, become active in a local Church group, go to lunch with a new friend, start working out at the gym. Try something you haven't done before, reach out to other people. You'll never know where God will lead you if you only let Him.
Yes, I know that starting a new school year can be hard. Especially for people who might be starting at a new school. But you'll get through it! I promise. Keep focusing on the positive, and enjoy learning. It's such a blessing to be able to have an education, be thankful. Look back at the summer with fond memories, look to the beginning school year as a new opportunity, a wonderful adventure.
Enjoy the rest of your summer, and best wishes for a great start to the school year!
