The horrible shrill beeping of my alarm woke me up — it was 7 a.m. I told myself that I still had more time, hit the snooze button and went back to bed. After what felt like five minutes, my not-so-pleasant alarm went off again. This time it was 7:15. I lied to myself that school did not start until the next day and that it was only the Sunday morning after Thanksgiving break. At 7:30 my alarm was ringing for the third time and I finally started getting ready for my 8:30 a.m. class.
After Thanksgiving break, there are only three weeks left in the semester but it feels like three months. These three weeks are indeed going to be the longest and most painful of the semester. But knowing that afterward we will have all the time in the world to relax with friends and family can be the fuel we need to keep going.
After one whole week of no school, it is difficult to get back into the groove of things. We wake up reluctantly and grudgingly come back to school. Although only three weeks are left, they seem like forever. Everyone is looking forward to the end of the semester. It’s like a form of torture when you get a taste of freedom during break and suddenly are thrown back into schoolwork.
During the break, most people take time to say what they are thankful for. At the Thanksgiving dinners I attended, I almost got tired of people constantly saying the same things: “I’m thankful for the break and for family and friends.”
Now that school is back in full swing, it’s difficult to think about even one thing to be thankful for in the midst of all the assignments, papers and projects that are due (considering that you probably got virtually nothing done during the break). However, there is still that feeling of excitement for the end of the break, of impending freedom just around the corner and the joy of knowing that very soon you will be reunited with family and friends once again.
Regardless of their religious views, everyone looks forward to the holiday season. Whether you are going to spend it in a mosque, church, temple or just on your couch watching your favorite TV show, the excitement floating around during the holiday season is contagious. A festive spirit is in the air as people set up decorations and prepare to celebrate the season in the way they know best.
Although the next three weeks might seem like the longest of the semester, one way to survive is to look forward to the end. As you walk through the Idaho Commons, don’t forget to appreciate the beauty of the Christmas tree and brightly glowing lights. Release your stress, embrace the happy mood and feel the holiday excitement.