Since 2021 has started, my life has been filled with unwanted turns and many things I wish my small hands could fix time’s clock to reverse. Heartbreak. Depression. Death. All of those things made me realize how much is to be appreciated. We must appreciate those who love us. We must appreciate the ones who make us smile. We must appreciate our gift of life.
It’s the little things for me. A warm hug after connection had been tethered. A quick phone call just so I can hear your voice. A simple “how was your day?” The sending of a TikTok that is nothing more than idiotic because it reminded you of me or reminded me of you. The little things matter. They may not seem like a lot to you, but to someone else it could be the thing that’s giving them hope, making them smile, making them feel again.
I was away from MSA campus for well over a month because of personal reasons. There was nothing more exciting than pulling up to the front doors of the school with bags weighing down the trunk. Adrenaline rushed through my veins as a smile crept onto my face. Moving in and setting up, I felt like I was back home. My home away from home.
Every detail, I noticed. The noodle cups stacked up in a box that also held microwavable macaroni and rice sat on the desk adjacent my bed. The way the mirror seemed clean and my covers felt soft. I missed my painting and tiara above the desk that I used. I missed my roommate’s colorful duvet and our late night conversations. I missed the little things that make my MSA experience special.
As I write this, I wish that time would slow down and allow me to really appreciate the little things this school has to offer. The early morning chat with the cafeteria ladies. Leaving my room only when that one person asks me. The randomness that happens in the cafeteria and the second floor activities. The burning of my calves as I take the stairs to avoid elevator conversations. The way the literary lab eases my soul as soon as I step into it.
I am really a junior at a school of the arts. I really get to live on a campus with creators and artists alike. I get to pursue my passion while still maintaining the life of a regular teen. All of it is still so fresh to me yet I feel like its all almost over.
I appreciate the little things in life because sometimes those are the most special. 🙂
BE APPRECIATIVE,
MSA SIMP 😉
This entire post is so beautifully detailed and amazing. I think a lot of people forget where we are – I do sometimes. But other times, sitting in Lampton, watching a group of endlessly talented students perform their art makes me realize the kind of opportunities this place serves for us, and I am so grateful. I’m excited to see what the future holds for us, especially next year.
I, too, am an MSA simp, and from one simp to another, I share these same feelings, just 10x more because it is almost over, and I’m really graduating and have to leave this place… I am terrified and heartbroken already! Okay, I’m gonna stop now before I start sobbing in the library… love you <3
This is so beautiful Taylor, I understand what you mean. It really is an amazing place.