A Fresh Perspective: Counting your blessings

With Thanksgiving behind us and Christmas rapidly approaching, it’s no surprise the holiday season is in full swing. It’s around this time that many people count their blessings and acknowledge everything they’re thankful for. Thanksgiving break was the first time since August I’d been able to be home for longer than about 12 hours, and it made me realize just how lucky I am to be surrounded by such an amazing network of family and friends—not only in my hometown, but at Luther College as well.

Spending time at home with my parents and brother may not sound like the most exciting way to pass the time, but the relaxation and family time were long overdue. I enjoyed doing many of the familiar things: shopping all day with Mom, in-depth conversations with Dad, and playful banter with my younger brother. Possibly the best aspect of going home, however, is my mom’s awesome cooking ability; home cooked food is such a luxury that it’s going to be tough to readjust to the caf. I’m not thankful for solely the food, though. Above all, I’m thankful for all of their love and support shown to me throughout the years—without them, I would not be where I am today.

Not only am I grateful for my family but also my friends: both at home in Sumner and here in Decorah. Spending time with several of my closest high school companions helped me to gain an even deeper appreciation for these special individuals. The memories made with those people can never be replaced, but at the same time, I was eager to return to Luther to be with my new friends and make new memories. These friends and these memories are unique indeed.

Where else can you jam out to every known genre of music while venting your frustrations about Paideia?

In addition to my thankfulness for these people, I began to compile a list of other things for which I’m grateful: sweatpants, microwaveable food, Skype, flip flops, foam mattress pads, and Jeopardy. Think this list sounds random? It is. However, a closer look at this collection of items reveals its unifying theme: each of these items makes college a much more pleasant experience. Without these seemingly unimportant things, I could be doomed to relaxing in jeans or sleeping on a hard mattress. As you count your blessings this holiday season, make sure to take nothing for granted—whether it’s big or small.