College is a unique chapter in the book of life. It is characterized by late nights, study sessions, occasional adventures, and personal growth. You could call it the "growing up" chapter because, with every turn, there is something new to learn, improve, and conquer. Very little is redundant at this time. Indeed the newness can become exhausting, but we are discovering so much: how to be independent, who we are, and (more importantly) who we want to be. We are also learning how to take care of ourselves, although some learn quicker than others (shout out to the cereal dinner enthusiasts). So between classes, time management, and laundry, there are many different subjects to master, but all in all, it is an incredibly rewarding time of autonomy. We learn if we rise to a challenge or succumb to the stress. We learn just how social we really are—millions of friends or a quality few. We learn what we're made of, and often times, it's tougher stuff than we thought. However, as we ponder the numerous virtues of college together, I would be amiss not to mention this personal proverb—as you master taking care of yourself, try your hand at taking care of others.
College can be marked by a period of self-absorption. We orbit around our priorities, schedules, and projects, and if it isn't staring us in the face, then it is not given our time or attention. I don't say this as a put-down or a lecture (Lord knows we've heard enough of those by now). It's merely an observation and nothing more, but it makes me want to buck the system. Because I believe—serving others is an imperative trait to learn, for it truly serves you in the end.
Honestly, there are few things as rewarding as caring for others. Something deep within bursts into life as you put someone else first. I can't describe it; it's just a warm fuzzy feeling, kind of like a Hallmark movie. And yes. I watch the Hallmark channel because I am 22 going on 95. Programming preferences aside, it's important to care for others because actions speak louder than words. Yep. Totally came up with that novel thought all by myself, but nonetheless, the adage rings true because I could tell you anything. Easy peasy. But doing anything for you is a different game entirely. Words are effortless, yet actions are effortful. They take time and thought. But if you put in this effort, you will reap ten fold. Because as you serve others, you characterize the relationships that you have. And it's a beautiful thing to see when caring comes full circle.
So yeah, this has all been a roundabout way of saying—be that person. Be the one that loves and cares more than they should because, when it comes down to it, we all get by with a little help from our friends.
