Dear friends near and far,
Each year of college, you have taught me a lot: how to be more empathetic, how to be a better version of myself and how to be a better friend. This holiday season, I am thankful for you all. You have given me a lot to be grateful for, and to celebrate as we enter the season of giving, love and friendship.
So, what better way to celebrate with friends and loved ones this holiday season than through reminding them how thankful you are for them. While you could do this in a traditional Friendsgiving way with Thanksgiving food and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” playing in the background, there are many ways to remind those important to you how thankful you truly are for them.
A Letter
While some may call it old fashioned, a letter is a timeless way to remind others how grateful you are of them. Take five to 10 minutes to write out your favorite memories with this person, alongside what lessons they have taught you and why you appreciate them for it. Either deliver it by hand or send it out in the mail for a personalized reminder of your friendship and love.
A Shared Playlist
For all the music lovers out there, one of the most personal gifts someone can give is a playlist of songs that remind them of you. Whether it is songs you love to sing together, one that has their name in it or one that carries the message of an inside joke between the two of you, this is the perfect way to say “I’m thinking of you,” even if you do not have the words to say it yourself.
A Small Gift
Now, I am not suggesting that you go out and break the bank, but if you come across a small gift that reminds you of someone or have the creative skills to make something yourself, it can make a real difference. These gestures do not need to be expensive to matter. A simple thoughtful gift can help your friends and loved ones feel seen and appreciated. Sometimes the smallest surprises end up having the biggest impact.
Exchanging Books
Similar to sharing playlists, but perfect for the readers in your group, exchanging books you have loved is a thoughtful way to share a piece of yourself with others. When you give someone a story that means something to you, you are inviting them into the worlds, voices and characters that helped shape you. It gives your friends a chance to connect with you on a deeper level by seeing what moved, inspired or comforted you.
Watch A Show Together
Especially for those relationships with distance between them, picking a show to watch together is a great way to ensure you always have something to talk about and dissect together. With shows like “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” or “Dancing With The Stars” releasing new seasons, now is the perfect time to pick one that interests you both and talk about your favorite characters, scenes and moments from the shows.
There are countless ways to remind those in your life how grateful you are for them, including my personal favorite: a phone call. Taking a few minutes out of your day as you walk to class or home from the gym to call someone in your life, catch up with them and hear their voice is a gift and exchange of time that cannot be beat.
So, spend some time this holiday season reminding those in your life what you are thankful for, and how they contributed to that.
With love always,
Lauren
