The Observer, April 27, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 26
A Fresh Perspective: Compassion, appreciation for individuality learned in first year
It seems like just yesterday that I was returning from winter break to begin this semester, and now it is over. It is crazy to me how the time has flown; the past year appears to have whizzed by in the blink of an eye.
This year has simply been an amazing experience for me. I have learned so much about both the people around me and myself. Here are a few tidbits I would like to share in the hope that they may enlighten and encourage:
The most prominent aspect of beginning this first year of college was being thrown into an extremely social environment full of unfamiliar people. I learned quickly that it is important to build positive relationships with those living nearby. I was lucky to be placed with an amazing floor, so this was quite easy. However, I still found people who annoyed me at first. It took some time for me to realize that it was not beneficial to think negatively of these people, but I eventually changed my attitude. By concentrating on being compassionate, I felt better about myself and the relationships I was surrounded by.
It is vital to cherish every moment in the day. I often felt days moving along so quickly that it was hard to keep up. If I would have valued my time more than I did, I'm sure that my quick days would have been less stressful and more memorable. Every day is a gift, and I should have used that gift to a fuller capacity. By slowing down a bit and taking time to walk through days rather than sprinting forward to a big exam or presentation the next week, I could have squeezed even more enjoyment out of this year.
Most importantly, I have discovered the necessity of individuality. In a world of peer pressure and bandwagon theories, it can be difficult to preserve a sense of self. By treasuring individuality and taking pride in my unique abilities, I have found much satisfaction. Too often, I have seen people attempt to compare themselves to an unattainable standard. If they learn to accept and embrace the abilities that make them an individual, they will find more satisfaction. When I found some of my unique personal characteristics, I was able to discover the best career path for myself and an increased acceptance of my individuality.
By no means am I saying that I am a master of all of these things; I still work day to day on building these characteristics in myself. Hopefully, by taking some of what I've written to heart, each one of us can work to make next year better than the last. Have a wonderful and relaxing summer, everyone.
McGreehan is a freshman Viola Performance/Music Education major involved in Symphonic Winds and Case/UC Symphony Orchestra.
