With the rush of the semester coming to an end way too quickly, and the sometimes scary thought of the future ahead, it’s way too easy to become too future-focused and fail to seize the day. It is essential to reflect on gratitude in your life, whether it be by making a list of the things you are thankful for, or using the Five Minute Journal. These can serve as therapeutic ways to stay content, centered and in a better mood. Lauren Jessen writes in the Huffington Post, “having participants write down a list of positive events at the close of a day — and why the events made them happy — lowered their self-reported stress levels and gave them a greater sense of calm at night”.
Thinking about gratitude is important to be conscious of, especially with Thanksgiving around the corner. VALLEY asked Penn State what they’re grateful for this holiday season, and the responses just might urge you to be a little more grateful today.
“I am grateful for the times that have not gone exactly as planned. They have given me the opportunity to discover a new path that has led me to where I am today, that otherwise I never would have taken,” says Alex McCormack, a junior majoring in Statistics and Economics.
“I’m thankful for amazing friends who spend time with me and go out of their way to make me happy. I’m thankful for my family who loves me for the person I am. I am thankful for the opportunity to live a happy life. I’m thankful for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Eagles both being above .500. And I’m thankful for a ton of food and sleep I’m going to have over these next few weeks,” says Jeremy Diamond, a senior majoring in Supply Chain Management.
“I am thankful for having a future career that allows me to directly impact peoples lives who need physical and emotional healing,” says Holly DeLuca, a junior majoring in Nursing.
“I’m grateful for having a clear head because it allows me to achieve my full potential. My academics, my happiness, and my ability to help other people more is improving. And I’m present in the moment which allows me to enjoy the little things,” says Maddy Stiebritz, a junior majoring in Nursing.
“For my roommate and best friend, Katrina Gracia!” says Sarah Murray, a senior majoring in Early Childhood Education.
“Thanksgiving season last year my dad was still recovering from a serious heart attack. This year I am extremely grateful and thankful to be able to celebrate the health and existence of each member of my wonderful family,” says Erin Alessandroni, a junior majoring in public relations.
“For the consistency that no matter what changes, or what happens in this crazy world, there will always be another Thanksgiving next year,” – Anonymous.
“For my boyfriend’s family who have taken me in as their own when I needed them the most,” says Mercedes Fraistat, a junior majoring in Broadcast Journalism.
“The ability to do absolutely whatever I want to do with my life. The possibilities are endless at this age and I can turn the page at any moment,” – Anonymous.
“I’m thankful for the love that my friends and family have shown me this season, and for their constant influence on me to become the best version of myself. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today, pursuing my dreams”, says Amanda Odgers, a junior majoring in Marketing.
VALLEY suggests you take your own inventory of gratitude this week! Remember, you could be grateful for anything—from your health, to your pen. Nothing is too small to put on your list.
What are you grateful for?
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