I thought I would chime in for once on a holiday theme. Previously, I only wrote about the New Year, which was conveniently prime self-help/productivity content. But today, the holiday is Thanksgiving. US readers might be surprised I had to specify the holiday, especially given the title and timing.
But Thanksgiving is not as widely celebrated outside the US, at least not in Nigeria. At home, we had thanksgiving every month at church, so maybe the idea faded in my mind. But when in Rome, do like the Romans do.
I love to practice gratitude, and we can all benefit from slowing down to appreciate the small things. Sahil Bloom just shared this post where he shares what he is thankful for. I want to share mine as well, as it may make you appreciate the tiny beauties even more.
Moments
Getting the opportunity to take multiple weekend trips with friends in senior year. The moment when the DJ played four Drake songs back to back at M&T Formal. When I realized I had no classes on a second consecutive day because of Thanksgiving. That burst of energy when I’ve had the right amount of coffee ahead of a challenging day. The small moments spent with friends throughout the year formed the deep relationships I have now.
Posts
Looking back, I’m also grateful for all the support from subscribers. Words of encouragement have been instrumental in completing more posts than I expected. And while I sometimes question the relevance of a post, I was very wrong on this one: “Be Intentional, Your twenties Matter”
Check it out if you haven’t read it yet. Thinking about the decisions we inevitably make around work and love is only wise. And many people seemed to resonate because it’s an idea that’s somewhat missing from the popular discourse. How important is that first job? Should I be concerned about my relationship?
While you may love or dislike Jordan Peterson, taking more responsibility to derive more meaning out of life is also a truth missing from popular discourse. The post is “Take Responsibility: Book Review of 12 Rules for Life”
Another thing that stuck out to me in that book is the idea of being an absolute monster. Firstly, Joe Rogan disagrees with using that word, but maybe a word like “fierce.” The point is that we’re all dangerous, and the question is, how do you direct that potential? Does your community suffer because of your inability to care for yourself and others? Or do your loved ones feel your impact when you become the best version of yourself?
People
What are you thankful for?
Wherever you might be, I hope you’re finding a way to connect with the ones you love. If you’re with family, then be present. Remember that time with our parents decreases as we get older. And if you’re a little farther away, give them a call instead. I’ll be spending my day doing just that.
This thanksgiving, the saying in my mind is, “It takes a village to raise a child.”
I’m grateful for my village.
Thanks to all those who have ever helped edit these posts: Fikemi Aiyepeku, Cathy Chen, Saaketh Narayan, Chisom Ndubuisi, Effie Oluoch, Quinn Robinson, Khushi Shelat, Pia Singh, and William Wang.
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I write about Business, Productivity, Books, every other Friday.
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