The Holidays Are Here, Where Would You Rather Be?

 

By: Osuolale Oluwatomilayo (Duchess) 

Just as the most anticipated season of the year is peeking around the corner, the jingle bells are getting even louder, the silent night is no longer silent. The tears of hallelujah fill our eyes but might dry up soon if the harmattan fights back. Maybe the harmattan is a messenger of the school management, drying up our hopes of getting that last-minute break. 

Before we get too engrossed in the feeling of the season and anticipation of the new year, bear in mind that “ Na who get break dey enjoy.” As we have been denied break, we have been denied eating good food. It is only a matter of time before food of thought barely satisfies us. Some feel troubled about not going home to their families, but the power lies in your palm. Wield it and if you don't, you'd have yourself to blame. 

We were all raised to follow instructions but at some stages in life, your peace of mind outweighs those instructions. I wouldn’t blame my Queens that cut through it all, regardless of the consequences and go home for a break after all “We sef don try abeg.” 

It has been an unending semester of energy-sucking struggles, it is expected that we get a few days off. 

People would “stab” classes and possibly miss out on tests but it would all be worth it when we fall into the arms of parents, whom we have not been so privileged to see in the past few months and taste the delicious Christmas delicacies awaiting us at the other side of the country. After all, if we are not loved in school, we are loved at home. 

As we have our bags stashed in a corner of our rooms anticipating the right moment to say bye-bye. It is almost time my dear, do not rethink as a break is only mandatory. Picture yourself not tearing the skin of the sweet, sweet chicken, painful right? Then you have your motivation.

It is not a bad thing to want to go home even though the only days we have off are not up to three. It is only a bad thing if you remain on your bed wallowing in sadness. Everyone is entitled to peace of mind, no matter what it is from. Do not rid yourself of the joy of the season, the beauty of carols and the warmth of family. 

UI is home but your family is the warmth you deserve. One day, you will leave this “home” and all you'll have left is your dear family.

Listen to the jingle bells, dear sisters, dance to the tunes, forget your sorrows and eat a bowl of fried chicken. Gain those calories, fill those neck holes, and get that radiant skin, it is your time to shine. Let go of the pain of the tests you fumbled, messing up is just one of the steps to success.  It is Christmas yet again, live it and love it!