Finding Gratitude in the Chaos
COVID-19 has hit the United States and has shut down businesses and schools all over the country. College students are having to switch to online classes and forced to move out of their dorms and move back home. All campus housing has shut down. As a senior in college, I have had my final semester abruptly cut short a month and a half early. I did not get the good-byes that I wanted, nor do I even get a graduation ceremony. This pandemic is not only affecting our health, but also our daily lives. People are losing their jobs and it’s impacting major life experiences.
We have to come together and support one another now, more than ever. We all have different experiences during this time and are all going through something different, but we’re all affected by it one way or another.
Losing my final months of my last semester as a college student is extremely upsetting. And, losing my college graduation is even more disappointing. For the last four years, I’ve been looking forward to walking across that stage with my best friends to accept my diploma that I’ve worked so hard for. Now I do not get to have that experience.
As there have been many unfortunate and life-altering changes from this pandemic, there are still things to be thankful for.
I get to move home early and be with my family and my dog.
I get to spend more time with my sister than I was before.
I get to work from the comfort of my home and stay in my pajamas and in my bed.
I am able to make more memories with my family before my sister goes back to school in the fall and I move on to the next chapter of my life.
I get to spend time with people I love and that I am close with.
My dog is so happy that her sisters are home and I get more cuddles from her because I never got to see her when I was at school.
I get home-cooked meals, instead of campus food.
There are so many little things that I am thankful for during this difficult time.
It is easy to get caught up in the chaos and pout and get upset with how it is changing our lives. But, in the grand scheme of things, we cannot change what is happening. We have to accept it for what it is. I encourage you to take a moment to take a few deep breaths and look around, what are you grateful for? You have a roof over your head, food in your pantry, toilet paper in your bathroom, and loved ones to spend time with. This is a time where we should be focusing on what we have that we are thankful for and showing gratitude in the little things.
Power of Threes
The “Power of Threes” exercise helps you remember the little things you are grateful for. Making a list of these things is a great way to keep that reminder present. Whether you write it down on a piece of paper or keep a note in your phone, be sure to make a list. This list can be very simple. Take a few deep breaths and close your eyes. Ask yourself “What am I grateful for?” Write down at least three things and keep the list going. When you are in a tough time, go back to this list and remind yourself of the simple things you are grateful for.
Remember, you are not alone. The entire world is struggling to get through the coronavirus. Stay strong and safe and remember the little blessings in your life.