As the next few days pass by, whether they be quick and care-free or grueling and homework-filled, we can all look forward to the upcoming break from classes and work.

However, next week is more than just a time to put our textbooks aside and let our minds drift away momentarily from the responsibilities awaiting us back on campus or in the office. Next week is a time to celebrate the love and precious moments we have with the ones we care about most. As well, it is a time to take a step back and recognize all that we are fortunate to have in our lives.

Unfortunately, I know that many of us will simply take the time to veg out, play video games, watch movies and eat as much as possible, revelling in the time we have away from classes and the opportunity we have to procrastinate just that much more.

Some students, I am sure, will take steps to recognize the importance of the holiday and the many aspects of their lives they are thankful for, but many others will not.

As I have scrolled through my newsfeed on Facebook, I have seen promising signs that my friends and fellow students realize the importance of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Many of their statuses sing the praises of veterans, their parents and other special people in their lives.

However, are my friends and fellow students taking the time to actually thank those people they praise in their statuses? I highly doubt so, and I think this is quite unfortunate.

Simply writing on your Facebook timeline or tweeting out a sentimental message might do well to express your thanks with friends and followers, but will the World War II veteran in the nursing home see the message? Will your mother, who does not have a Facebook or a Twitter profile, see the message? Will your professor, who has not friended or followed you, see the message? No.

So, instead of using this upcoming break as a chance to veg out, chow down and put your work off, take the time to truly express your thanks.

Make the drive to the nursing home and thank your local veterans. Set the time aside to speak with your mother face-to-face and thank her for all she has done in your life. Visit your professors in their office and sit down, get to know them better and let them know how much you appreciate the invaluable knowledge they have provided you.

Each effort you make to truly express your thanks will make your Thanksgiving break more than just time away from campus. It will be a meaningful and purpose-filled experience that will leave both you and the special people in your lives feeling better about yourselves.

Tim Deters is a senior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].