Online Producer
Graduating from college is an exciting accomplishment that leaves alumnae with lasting memories to cherish as they move forward toward a bright future.
But, in all reality, I’m stressing out.
Don’t get me wrong, I have been ready to graduate since my car got stuck twice in the middle of the lovely Carson Street this winter. But, as classes start to seem more pointless and things I enjoy are put on the backburner while I search and apply for job after job, I’m really just ready for the summer that I’m not going to have.
While my mom has already gotten used to the frequent, “please tell me positive things and calm me down,” phone calls from me, in reality I’m doing better than I think. It has been a whirlwind of a semester for me between personal events, school and inevitable adulthood realities closing in. But, I have made it through barely missing a beat…and just a few classes.
Today, I am missing classes and Ball Bearings meetings for the Jewish holiday, Passover. My family and I celebrate this holiday not only to remember the historical struggles of the Jewish people, but, most importantly, to show forgiveness and thankfulness for the lives we have.
In the midst of my ever-growing to-do list, my brother recently reminded me his favorite part of the Passover Seder. There is a section of the Seder where everyone around the dinner table takes turns reading paragraphs that describe how a struggle or hardship was resolved. After each paragraph, my family all says, “Dayenu,” in unison.
Dayenu is a Hebrew term that roughly translates to, “it would have been enough,” or, “for that alone, we would be grateful.” It serves as a remembrance to be thankful for the life one has instead of stressing over big or little things. It helps my brother to be positive in difficult situations by thinking of all of the good in his life instead of the bad.
I realized that in the spirit of Passover, I should do the same. I may be swamped with work as I complete all the finishing touches of my degree, but I’m graduating on time. Dayenu. I may be stressed out trying to find a job and going on interview after interview, but at least I am getting interviews. Dayenu. I may be excited and scared to start my future at the same time, but I have a fantastic family to help me juggle my confusing transition. Dayenu.
To all my fellow graduates, hang in there. Think positively and get ready to toss those graduation caps! Dayenu!
Mallory Jordan,
Online Producer
