In this time of uncertainty and stress, it’s more important than ever to surround ourselves with the people, places and things which bring us comfort and relaxation. Whether it’s a hard working parent who’s always there for you or a quiet space to reflect and grow, it’s essential to find something to rely on, something that can support you rain or shine.

What’s just as essential is that we show proper gratitude for those people, places and things and be thankful for what we have while it’s still around. There’s no better time than November, National Gratitude Month, to acknowledge and celebrate what we’re grateful for.

What are you grateful for, Huskies?

Lola Febres, a sophomore nursing major, is grateful for her mother’s resilience and love.

Q: “Who is one person that you are grateful for?”

A: “My mom. My mom endured a lot of situations through life that could have changed her perspective on how she handles things and how she goes about stuff and how she helps people. She still continues to be a helping hand, continues to be loving, continues to support her kids, but she also knows how to tell us like, right from wrong.”

Bailey Jones, a first-year mechatronics major, is thankful for the friend that introduced him to some of NIU’s clubs.

Q: “Who is one person that you are grateful for?”

A: “If I had to pick one of my parents, I’d say my mom. I’m also grateful for a lot of people here (at NIU). I have one friend that’s brought me to a lot of clubs I have a lot of fun at. It’s kind of hard to name one person I’m grateful for, I’d definitely say that.”

Janae Holmes, a first-year psychology major, appreciates NIU’s campus and all the resources it offers.

Q: “What is one place that you are grateful for?”

A: “I’m grateful for our campus at NIU. We have a lot of resources here that get me through every day and it’s a lot more helpful than just living, like, in a random city or something like that.”

Tamaya Duplechin, a senior business administration major, is grateful for life and thinks you should be too.

Q: “What is one thing that you are grateful for?”

A: “I’m grateful to see another day. I’m grateful to see the fact that I could do my homework. Honestly, I’m grateful for life. Y’all got something to be grateful for, even if it’s something small.”