Spring Break
Editorial: Be thankful
Issue date: 11/25/08 Section: Editorial/Opinion
11/25/08 - Editorial: If you spy more empty seats than usual in class today, just wait until tomorrow. It's almost Thanksgiving and University of Rhode Island students are as anxious as ever to get home to enjoy family, food and, of course, football.
Moreover, Thanksgiving solicits a time to reflect on the Pilgrims and the Native Americans and to give thanks for all that life has bestowed.
Yes, Turkey Day is certainly upon us.
But before you rush home to dig into the stuffing and cranberry sauce, think about this. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Thanksgiving is the most dangerous holiday for drivers.
It doesn't stop at driving though, the fact of the matter is that Thanksgiving hazards extend way beyond road trips, you know - electric knives, drunk drivers, the dangerous process of deep-frying a turkey, tryptophan comas...your mother's "holiday" sweater. So, just be on the lookout, OK?
But in all seriousness, with many URI students and faculty traveling to see family, it's important to be on your best behavior during the drive home. No tailgating, no speeding and please, try not to be aggressive.
It's these offenses that are responsible for the majority of those accidents that lead to the biggest traffic jams.
If you plan on flying, taking a train or boarding a bus try to mentally prepare yourself for the long lines and crowds and likely delays that await you. No one likes a cranky traveler.
But more than anything, be thankful. You've probably heard it from your parents more than anyone, but they do have a point.
It's easy to be thankful for the big things: a place to live, a car to drive, a college education. But consider not having food to eat this holiday, or a warm place to stay. In the midst of an economic crisis, rising energy costs and unemployment Thanksgiving for some might not be as jolly as your own. Keep in mind those who are less fortunate during this season, and help out when you can. Many soup kitchens and food pantries need volunteers and donations more than anything during this time of the year.
So, URI, whatever your plans include, have a happy (and safe!) Thanksgiving and be thankful for the little things - good health, good people, and life itself.
Moreover, Thanksgiving solicits a time to reflect on the Pilgrims and the Native Americans and to give thanks for all that life has bestowed.
Yes, Turkey Day is certainly upon us.
But before you rush home to dig into the stuffing and cranberry sauce, think about this. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Thanksgiving is the most dangerous holiday for drivers.
It doesn't stop at driving though, the fact of the matter is that Thanksgiving hazards extend way beyond road trips, you know - electric knives, drunk drivers, the dangerous process of deep-frying a turkey, tryptophan comas...your mother's "holiday" sweater. So, just be on the lookout, OK?
But in all seriousness, with many URI students and faculty traveling to see family, it's important to be on your best behavior during the drive home. No tailgating, no speeding and please, try not to be aggressive.
It's these offenses that are responsible for the majority of those accidents that lead to the biggest traffic jams.
If you plan on flying, taking a train or boarding a bus try to mentally prepare yourself for the long lines and crowds and likely delays that await you. No one likes a cranky traveler.
But more than anything, be thankful. You've probably heard it from your parents more than anyone, but they do have a point.
It's easy to be thankful for the big things: a place to live, a car to drive, a college education. But consider not having food to eat this holiday, or a warm place to stay. In the midst of an economic crisis, rising energy costs and unemployment Thanksgiving for some might not be as jolly as your own. Keep in mind those who are less fortunate during this season, and help out when you can. Many soup kitchens and food pantries need volunteers and donations more than anything during this time of the year.
So, URI, whatever your plans include, have a happy (and safe!) Thanksgiving and be thankful for the little things - good health, good people, and life itself.
