I can admit truthfully that I am guilty of complaining too much about things that don’t matter in life. I understand that I am far too blessed to be whining about things such as my car not heating up fast enough for the cold weather or my hair not curling the way that I want it to in the morning (ladies, you know what I mean). In one of my earlier articles about New Year’s Resolutions I mentioned appreciating the little things. I find that I am already having a hard time with that now that school has picked up again. I am too busy worrying about that essay due next week or that test just around the corner to stop and “smell the roses.” I guess it’s about time I take my own advice.
I am thankful for certain things throughout my day. There is, in my personal opinion, nothing better than waking up and smelling a cup of fresh brewed dark coffee, especially right now in the cold weather. A good parking spot on college campuses can be the difference between an okay day and a great day. That first floor, short walk, close to class parking spot is probably on the same level of excitement as winning the lottery. I love a good discussion in class. This is one I do not think about often, but when reflecting upon the day it definitely makes a difference if you just sat around listening to a lecture or if you and your classmates actively participated in an interesting discussion. I love phone conversations with my mom. I don’t think I appreciate those enough, but after I get off the phone with her and see that we’ve just spent 45 minutes talking, I understand how much I confide in her.
I am thankful for the actions of people too because those are not simply things that you come by due to chance, but they are direct forms of kindness that one human being decided to give to another. That person who offers to share their umbrella when it’s raining. That person behind you in line who covers the extra 50 cents for your meal when you’re running short on money. That person who you know you’ve both briefly met each other before, but you’re not sure if they recognize you so you don’t say anything, but they have the courage to come and say hi to you. That person who is very considerate in traffic and makes sure that they do not cut you off or take your turn. Those small acts so kindness are full of incredible power; they can easily change someone’s day. Furthermore, you don’t always have to be the recipient of them, you can be the one giving such kindness.
Being thankful for the little things also includes making the most of a bad situation. If I don’t get my coffee in the morning or have to park at the top of the parking garage, I cannot let that ruin my day. Look at the bright side; I shouldn’t have too much caffeine anyways and having my car at the top of the garage means that the sun will keep it warm while the weather is cold outside. The little things are not just good occurrences that happen during the day. The little things mean appreciating each day, good or bad, no matter what. Appreciate those small moments of bliss and, even when they are not there, try to create them yourself.
