Since I started college, the Christmas season, previously warm in the presence of loved ones and magical in the glow of twinkling tree lights, has felt oddly disjointed. For one, as a member of an a cappella group, I start Christmas in October, before the rest of the world is even allowed to listen to Christmas music, in order to have a decent set prepared for our annual concert. Thus the Christmas season begins with a checklist: “Learn X songs in Y weeks.” (1) Then, the day

As I settled into the festivities that come with Thanksgiving, I stopped to try to take it all in. I was surrounded by a loving family and caring friends, amazing food, joy, laughter, and songs. I realized that I had so many things to be thankful for this year. I have the privilege of being a student at a wonderful university, I have fostered friendships that will last a lifetime, I am blessed with an incredible roommate, and I get to sing with an amazing a cappella group. Th