Addie D.
If you are reading this, you are loved more than you know.
The Fall semester is something I find to be an exciting yet busy time. We reconnect with each other, we explore new things and new experiences, and we enjoy the company of each other, whether that’s a football game or just being surrounded by new and old friends.
As we progress, so does the season; the days get shorter, schoolwork gets longer, and the weather gets colder. It can get extremely overwhelming and feel as if there are not enough hours in the day to be present at each moment and enjoy what is supposed to be the best four years of your life. At the end of last year’s semester, I spent endless hours in the library, canceling plans with close friends and keeping much of my days to myself.
It is so easy to isolate yourself when the days get shorter. To me self-reflection and alone time is essential. While, it is also necessary to say yes to time with friends and family. I have often found myself self-isolating and questioning my belonging; however, most of this anxiety was due to the perspective of “ I have so much to do,” I often neglected the ones I truly needed. For our well-being, making time for those who add light and love into our lives is essential.
When we come to college, we leave behind what we have known for 18 years. We build a new life on campus. We are tasked to love what is now your home. At first, it is overwhelming; however, there is immense love in things we don’t even realize. Self-isolation can cause us to become blind to all of these beautiful and joyous things.
When I say love, I don’t necessarily mean romantically, but rather when the barista is happy to see you pick up your morning coffee or your TA who is willing to help you understand complex material or the bus driver who is delighted to pick you up every morning with a smile. We do so many little things for each other out of love, and it is our job to return what has been given to us and to recognize how loved we genuinely are. Cherish the small moments and realize that people are to help and support one another. You have built a new family on this campus.
I challenge you to look around every once in a while, give a smile to a stranger, hold the door for the person behind you, and say thank you. All these gestures are done out of love and can drastically change someone’s day, week, or life. Show love when we need it the most. The end of the semester can be a challenge. Be the person you want someone to be for you.
I urge you to call your friends whom you haven’t spoken to, maybe the hallmates from your freshman year or someone you shared a class with, reconnect with them and share the memories and laughter in this stressful time. We are all busy, but we all deserve a little love. So many people need you, your smile, and the love you give daily.
You are capable of so much, and you are loved more than you know.
Addie D., Clemson University
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