After an entire week of feeling uninspired, out-of-it, and overall “BLEH,” I thought it would be fitting to take a moment to be intentional and reflect on anything and everything I feel grateful for in this moment. Additionally, November is the month of Thanksgiving, a time where we are encouraged to give thanks, so why not write a list prematurely?
1. My West Elm X Pottery Barn Teen Cloud Comforter
For my college dorm room, I made the switch from a duvet cover in my childhood bedroom to a comforter, and let me tell you, it has been life-changing. I no longer have to fool with an insert that would never want to stay in place. Also, when the name of the comforter was cloud, it was no lie. Seriously, it is the softest and most plush piece of fabric that I have ever felt. If you need another opinion, I can help you track down my roommate because we purchased the same one. (P.S. We both bought it in this lovely oatmeal color that goes well with some fun, colorful throw pillows!)
https://www.pbteen.com/products/west-elm-pbteen-cloud-comforter-sham/
2. A Plain Bagel from O’Hill Dining Hall
Let’s be so for real, the only edible meal from the dining hall is breakfast. Okay, I am exaggerating, but for those who have tried the bagel option, I think that you would back me up on how reliable its taste is as well as its presence. I am not going to sit here and say that the bagel is the best thing that I have ever eaten and that no New Jersey or New York bagel could compare because that’s not true, and that’s also not why I am grateful for it. You can pretty much depend on there being bagels in the dining hall everyday, and they are always the same adequate quality. (NOT TO MENTION THE WHOPPING SIZE!) I have a plain, toasted bagel every morning with a slap of peanut butter and it hits! There is no better way to start my day, no seriously I look forward to it when I go to sleep at night. I encourage every first-year to wake up early enough once to try one of these infamous bagels for breakfast — you know they’ll be there. (For someone who craves a routine, this bagel has really satisfied my hunger and need for repetition. GET IT?!)
3. The Random Guy Who Plays Guitar on The Lawn
Three days out of the week I have a class starting at 5 p.m. (which is unfortunate, but not the point) and it just so happens that around that time a middle-aged man, who I very much appreciate, is seated near the Rotunda, faithfully playing his guitar and possibly singing. Sometimes, his presence garners a crowd of burn-out students, deprived of wholesomeness. And other times, he strings his guitar as background music to our fast-paced lives. Similar to the bagel, this man shows up regularly for UVA students, and it’s a lovely thing to witness. Seeing this sight is a reminder that there is still goodness in the world.
Okay, so I have done it, compiled a short, silly gratitude list… And, you know what? I feel better. So, why don’t you try it?