I can’t believe there are only a few more days until Thanksgiving! This year, the holiday season will look a bit different due to the global pandemic, and while the past few months have been challenging and tumultuous, there are still so many things that I am thankful for. Read on to see what’s on my list!
- Good Books
Although I used to read regularly when I was still an undergraduate student, I started reading less and less once I started working full-time. It got to the point where I was probably only reading two books a year. It didn’t help that I tended to fill my schedule to the brim with appointments, events, and gatherings on my days off in an attempt to make up for being constantly busy at work.
Due to the stay-at-home orders and the start of my graduate studies this past year, however, I’ve slowly started to develop better reading habits again, and in doing so, I have a newfound appreciation for good books. Reading has been therapeutic since it helps me reflect on my own life. Plus, the feeling of immersing myself in a book’s world is not only enjoyable, but also calming.
- Music
Aside from books, music is another thing that I am thankful for because it makes me feel connected to the world in a way that nothing else can. The whole experience of discovering a song, listening to it, and then falling in love with it is extremely personal to me, and I’m so grateful for those moments because they’re very introspective.
I’ve always thought of music as something that can bring people together, and that’s another reason why I love it so much – it’s a great form of bonding, and it helps connect people, regardless of their differences.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee
There’s nothing more gratifying than a cup of fresh coffee. Prior to the pandemic, I always got my caffeine fix from my favorite local coffee shops, since it was so convenient. However, because we’re at home most of the time now, I can’t really justify going out just for coffee, so I’ve actually started learning how to make my own pour-overs. It definitely took me a couple of tries to get it right, but it’s made me appreciate my neighborhood baristas so much more! And while I’ve always been a coffee enthusiast, I’ve never really taken the time to understand and enjoy the process of making coffee, so that’s something that I’m thankful for this year.
- Social Media
Some people may have a love-hate relationship with social media, and I used to feel the same way. This year, though, I’ve actually noticed that I’m so thankful for social media because it’s been one of the main ways that I’ve been able to keep in touch with my family and friends during the pandemic. Through Instagram and Facebook, I’ve been able to keep up with everything that’s been going on in my loved ones’ lives, and it’s so nice to feel connected even when we’re socially distancing ourselves.
That wraps up the things that I am thankful for this year! What are some of the things that you’re thankful for?