Holiday Reflections: Reuniting, Recharging, and Readying for the New Year

Compliment of the season as we end the year to embrace the beginning of a new year and something fresh. As we begin to talk about the festivities of this period, we must not forget to reflect on the busyness and stress of the year. This year has seen two sessions for students and is about to wind up the second session. While that might be an improvement for those wanting to graduate on time, it came with a lot of stretch and stress and from the school management, three days for a break this season.

Now, to the festivities of this period. Compliments of the season. The streets are coloured green and red, with music and so much buzziness as this is the time when loved ones reunite, homecomings happen, and many retreat from a busy year. Dishes are being distributed as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Others also celebrate the end of the year, and in just a few days, folks will be with their families, and friends, in church, or at parties depending on what sails their boat to count down to a new year.

With all this in the air, the university has deemed it fit to only declare three days for a holiday for students: Christmas Day, Boxing Day (as directed by the government), and New Year's Day. Quite a short holiday for students who have endlessly toiled the whole year, meeting the demands of school life and deadlines.

The holiday period is a time for students to take a breather from the chaos of academic workload and bond with families they have been apart from, some since the beginning of the year and others for several months. The joy of reconnecting, sharing meals, and engaging in long-awaited conversations is unparalleled. This is also a time to nurture relationships that may have taken a backseat due to the rigours of academic life. Whether with siblings, parents, or childhood friends, these moments of reconnection carry a profound sense of comfort and belonging for everyone.

However, while it is the holidays, many students extend the three-day break from school management. It is unrealistic for students to travel far and near for just a three-day break. It is imperative to remember that work resumes in just a few days. Tests will roll in, and in no time, the beginning of exams will follow. Deadlines for submissions will come up immediately after resumption, with little to no leniency for defaulters. Lecturers often see the break as ample time to finish pending tasks, so we, as students, must also fulfil our obligations responsibly. Preparing ahead can help ease the pressure. Reviewing notes, organising tasks, and setting goals can ensure a smooth transition back to academic activities. 

The holiday season also brings opportunities for introspection. It’s a time to evaluate personal achievements and challenges over the past year. Students can reflect on their growth, set realistic goals for the future, and cultivate a mindset of resilience and adaptability. It’s not just about celebrating; it’s about preparing for what lies ahead with clarity and purpose.

Additionally, this period reminds us of the importance of giving back. Many students engage in community service, volunteer work, or small acts of kindness that spread the spirit of the season. These gestures, whether donating to a cause, helping a neighbour, or simply sharing words of encouragement, resonate deeply and make the festivities more meaningful.

The holiday season calls for balance. It is essential to cherish the moments with loved ones, celebrate in moderation, and recharge for the academic responsibilities that await. Let’s embrace the festivities with gratitude while keeping our academic goals in mind. Here’s wishing everyone a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead!