Group of FRCC employees sitting around a table talking and laughing

What we’re grateful for in this season of giving thanks.

November is always a stressful, busy time of the year at a college. The semester is at the height of its frenzy. (So many papers, exams, meetings, projects—all coming to a head at once!)

It doesn’t help that it’s now completely dark outside when we leave work. There’s precious little time to be outside and take in any of our Colorado sunshine at this time of year.

Of course, it isn’t only those of us in education who are feeling stressed and gloomy these days. People around the US and all over the world are tired, worried and tense.

Acknowledging and Releasing Stress

In addition to the usual stressors of modern life, many of us continue to be deeply troubled by the wars in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine, and Sudan—as well as other devastating humanitarian crises and conflicts around the globe. This layers additional stress and sorrow onto our collective psyche.

And the US general election has spurred a wide range of emotions and strong opinions. As we process the outcomes together, our college community is focusing on what unites us—our shared commitment to education, our common values of equity and inclusion, and the mutual respect we extend to one another.

Although the conversations around politics have been intense, it’s important to remember that, beyond the differences we may have, we are united by common goals and a vision for a brighter future. Our work at FRCC changes lives, and we will keep changing lives regardless of the outcome of any election.

Finding Light in the Darkness

Holiday photos from different cultures featuring candles and lights

Because of all this, we need to make a concerted effort to see the light around us, especially at this time of year. Even in times of strife, each of us has things we can, and should, be thankful for.

I find these items are actually pretty easy to recognize when I think about other people in our community—and around the world—who are struggling or suffering. This can be as simple as taking a moment to be grateful for a warm meal, noticing a smile from a stranger or appreciating the roof over your head on a rainy day.

Practicing Gratitude Is Good for You

Shot of faculty member Javier Flores smiling

Research suggests that “gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness.” It assists us in dealing with stress.

According to this article from Harvard Medical School, gratitude helps people to:

  • feel more positive emotions
  • relish good experiences
  • improve their health
  • deal with adversity
  • build strong relationships

Well, who wouldn’t want all that?

A Little Help From My Friends

FRCC faculty members sitting at a table smiling

With these thoughts in mind, I approached my colleagues around Front Range Community College for some assistance and guidance. I asked them to send in their thoughts explaining what they’re thankful for this fall. The idea was to pool our collective gratitude to boost all of our outlook as we head into the coldest, darkest months of the year.

Some co-workers simply sent in a single word or a short sentence. Others had more full-fledged ideas to express. All came across as truly sincere in their appreciation for what life has given us, despite the daily challenges.

With the long holiday weekend almost upon us, here are the results of FRCC’s virtual brainstorm—which highlights just a handful of the many things we have to be grateful for.

We Are Thankful For…

Headshot of Dr. Simpson

“I’m blessed to be living a life that is supported with love, family, friends and community. I am grateful for the ability to serve our community. I’m also thankful for the blessings God has bestowed upon me.

I would not be here without my faith—for that I am thankful. And I hope, as I continue my journey in life, that I will approach everyone with kindness, love and respect.”

~FRCC President Colleen Simpson, EdD

Supportive Community

Two smiling FRCC employees

I am truly grateful to be a part of such a warm, welcoming work community every day!

I’m thankful for a warm, supportive family and neighbors.

Though this mortal world is in a time of madness, there exist good people and good things which bring sunshine to each day and moonlight to each night.

I’m grateful for family, friends and community.

Meaningful Work

Two FRCC employees talking and smiling

I am grateful for the passion and commitment I continue to see in our faculty and instructors when it comes to the work of teaching and learning. We’re in this together, and we’re grateful to be part of such a caring and committed community. 

I’m so thankful to have a job that I enjoy.

I am grateful to be part of the Front Range Community College staff and work with the amazing Gateway to College Program team. The hard work we do with the teenagers in this program is both challenging and rewarding. Additionally, I am thankful for being alive, for my family, and friends.

I am thankful for the ability to work, teach and learn from others.

I just received an offer for a full-time position in digital accessibility. My time will be spent ensuring success for students who face academic barriers. I could not be more grateful to continue fighting for the rights of marginalized populations and helping them realize and fulfill their potential.

Health and Wellness

I am thankful for a very skilled surgeon who saved my vision by repairing a retinal detachment that had left me partially blind for months.  I am also VERY grateful for Kathy Gamble and Anne Marie Jacobson for all of their care and support while I was trying to teach all of my courses. 

Faith and Family

I am thankful for so many things this year.  Among them are: a wonderfully supportive husband, kids who make me laugh each day, and a job that allows me to balance work and family. 

FRCC staff member smiling and laughing

I am grateful for God. I am grateful for my family. I am grateful for grace, love, peace, joy and forgiveness. I am grateful for a wonderful team of colleagues and meaningful work.

Thank YOU

And lastly, dear reader, I appreciate you for taking the time to scroll through this compilation of our joint gratitude. THANK YOU for that—and for all you do that makes our world a place worth being grateful for.

I hope you have time this weekend to think about what you’re thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving!

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