Thanksgiving is looking a lot different this year. With another lockdown underway and COVID-19 restrictions looming large, there is understandably a lot more focus on what we can鈥檛 do鈥攍ike host a big dinner鈥攖han on how much pumpkin pie we plan to eat.
While it鈥檚 essential that we all make choices to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, that doesn鈥檛 mean it鈥檚 easy.
Still, there is much to be thankful for. In fact, I've been thinking, lately, about how the pandemic has increased my appreciation for what I believe are the most important things: family, health, and my goals as I look toward the future. This reflection has led to a list of 鈥淐OVID life hacks,鈥� or things I want to keep in the forefront of my mind even after we get back to a new normal.
I want to dedicate more time to the people I love. I want to prioritize my physical and mental well-being in big and small ways鈥攅ating toasted tomato sandwiches for lunch, watching the bird feeder, and playing 鈥渇etch the stuffed mouse鈥� with Arthur, the stray cat I鈥檝e been nursing back to health since April. Ultimately, I want to be content with less, focused on my relationships with myself, the people who mean the most to me, and the natural world.
I encourage 黑料不打烊 students to join me in taking stock of your lives and pondering the things that bring you real joy. Yes, that upcoming assignment or exam is important, but so is the bigger picture. Education is one pillar of many in a purposeful, balanced life, and now is the perfect time to consider what you have and what you can do to get closer to that ideal.
I鈥檓 grateful for all of you, and wish you and your families鈥攂oth blood and chosen鈥攁 wonderful Thanksgiving.