Small Moments of Gratitude

Here are some things I am grateful for—how about you?

By Marley Richmond

A sentiment I have heard often in the last three weeks goes something like this: “I didn’t realize how much I loved being at college until I wasn’t allowed to go back.” I’m right there with you! For those of us who are privileged enough to be healthy right now, and in a safe place, it can still feel like there is a constant weight of anxiety and longing pressing down on our home-bound days. At school, the walk to classes was long and often cold, I spent too much time on the bus, and I was constantly busy, either studying or working. But what I wouldn’t give to be back on campus now, trudging through a long day of classes.

All too often, we realize how thankful we are for something only after it is gone. And that loss—whether it is the loss of a loved one, a normal routine, or even just a favorite piece of clothing—only makes it harder to find other opportunities for gratitude. However, in the current times, where we are all asked to make sacrifices, it is more important than ever to appreciate what we do have. When it is difficult to see beyond hardship, disappointment, and fear, looking out for the smallest moments of joy is a place to start.

My list of gratefulness is long, and near the top are access to clean water, food, and shelter. If you or a loved one does not have access to these necessities, head to the bottom of this article for a few of the many resources available to help. Healthcare workers, grocery store employees, and other workers deemed “essential” are up there on my list as well. In an effort to expand my thankfulness, and find a little more levity in difficult moments, I have also been compiling a more random and more upbeat list of things I appreciate. This isn’t meant to be a deep, profound reflection on what life looks like right now. If you couldn’t care less, I don’t blame you. But if you’re struggling to find a little lightheartedness, I hope my list can inspire you to experience gratefulness through whatever avenue it may come. 

My Favorite Pair of Jeans

I would and could write a genuine love letter to these jeans. They’re black men’s Levi’s from Ragstock, and the denim is more stable than me at the moment. After twenty years of life, I have finally found a pair of jeans that actually fit me. At first, they were a little wide at the ankle, but like the best things in life, they adjusted well to change (aka when I tailored them). I just really love these pants, and that is all. 

TikTok

Twitter makes me anxious, Instagram makes me insecure, and Facebook is… well… generally terrible, but TikTok hasn’t failed me yet. From watching people cut their own bangs and dye their hair to seeing people shake out their cats like long feline slinkies, I am comforted and amused by everyone else falling apart in social isolation. Even the teenagers who are way hotter than me are alright—we’re all equally unable to leave the house. You’re sure to be reminded that we’re all cooped up about every 15 seconds, but TikTok makes me laugh through my tears. 

My Cat

Social isolation has me (and most of us, I think) a little starved for physical touch. Fortunately, there is an eight-pound ball of fur waiting to sit on my lap, legs, or chest anytime I am reasonably horizontal. Our pets couldn’t be any happier with all this time at home, so make use of them in replacing whoever you might usually be cuddled up next to. 

Childhood Stuffed Animals

I will admit that I have a stuffed animal—a polar bear named Annabelle—that I’ve kept since I was a baby. Being back at my parent’s home means that I can shamelessly cuddle with her every night, and, I’ll admit, I do sleep more soundly. 

Puzzles

Are you tired of staring at your phone in boredom? Are you looking for something else to do instead of your homework? Do you need something to feel in control of when things feel out of control? Look no further than whatever puzzle you may have on hand. Puzzles are also a great activity to do with your family and/or roommates without actually having to talk to them for a while. 

Bon Appétit on Youtube

Sometimes, taking a break from the news is the only way to stay afloat in wave after wave of updates and fear. Bon Appétit’s Gourmet Makes is, in my opinion, the perfect distraction. There’s something about Claire Saffitz, the show’s host, that keeps me calm even when she’s freaking out about tempered chocolate. Plus, if you’re using all this extra time on your hands to get cooking, you might just find some inspiration. What else are we going to do all day if not painstakingly recreate Poptarts?

And, of course, I am thankful for The Wake and this opportunity to connect with the UMN community no matter how far apart we may be. Keep reading, writing, figuring out what it’s like to have a hobby, and, despite the challenges, keep being thankful.

** Gratitude for basic survival needs is a privilege not all people have. The Nutritious U food pantry is open, and you can find more information here, if you need help accessing food. If you or someone you know needs emergency funding, email OneStop@umn.edu to get more information and/or start that process. More resources are available here. 

If you are able, supporting others in your local community or through platforms such as GoFundMe is an impactful way of sharing gratitude with others. You can contribute to the UMN Student Emergency Fund here if you feel so inclined.