Freshman Frenzy
As my son transitions into his first few days and weeks of college life, he shares with us the struggles he has already faced. From our own similar experiences, we realize that this is the time when the challenge to find peace in the chaos and balance amidst the juggling, begins.
Although I had my share of some challenges that were similar to Samuel’s, the one most difficult for me was maintaining a healthy weight. I was young, immature and unable to keep my priorities in order. My physical health life took the back seat while my social life thrived.
My weight issues became most problematic after I started waiting tables at a Greek restaurant. I remember eating massive amounts of curly fries and snacking on pieces of baklava. I’m certain many of those pounds could also be attributed to the consumption of many mugs of Killian’s Red which I drank while I hung out there on my off days.
Over the course of a semester I managed to gain at least 20 pounds. I’m not sure how much I weighed because I didn’t have a scale and really didn’t want to know. The clothes I could still fit into were uncomfortably tight, and I was miserable—there is your sign!
On a trip home one weekend I remember seeing the look on my Dad’s face. With a hug and a kiss and a few words of concern, I knew it was time to make a change.
When I returned, I began exercising again. I would run around campus several times a week. Ruth Dicks, the cross country coach, stopped me one day and asked me to join the team. It was exactly what I needed; a group of people, not intensely serious competitors, but serious about being fit and healthy.
Although I didn’t return to my pre-college weight, I was healthy and much more comfortable in my skin. Finding a balance physically helped me to get more grounded emotionally and mentally. I focused on my academics, still enjoyed a very active social life and was able to achieve many personal bests on the course.
Samuel sits quietly listening to our stories and sharing his own. We offer advice and he receives it with an open heart. Sometimes all it takes to help our own children find balance is a hug and a kiss and a few words of concern.
For questions or concerns email: suzannemcginnis@me.com.