Skype.

I've grown to be grateful for the simplest of things. Going away to college has certainly humbled me and made me realize what matters most. And after moving into an apartment, I've certainly learned how much I have to be thankful for at home. 

I'm sure that this will only continue as I grow older and experience all of the changes that are to come. 

Perhaps what I am most thankful for, however, is Skype. Modern technology has given us the ability to traverse great distances through a computer screen, or even from the convenience of our smart phones. 

I honestly don't think that I could have stayed in New York without Skype. Of course, I couldn't have stayed in New York for countless reasons--I couldn't have stayed if I didn't meet the friends that I have made, if I didn't feel so comfortable at my campus... the list goes on. 

Of course, Skype isn't the same as seeing someone face-to-face. And I don't think any technology, no matter how sophisticated, will ever replace that kind of contact. Yet Skype is the next best thing. One of my favorite feelings is the one that rushes over me when I see a loved one's face pop up on my screen as my computer starts ringing, begging to be answered. 

It is so comforting to be able to talk to someone from home, and to be reminded of that connection that you hold so dearly. It's easy to get caught up in the stresses of day-to-day life, and forget about what you have that may be far away physically, but is so close in your heart. 

Skype is like a little window to a world that you have left behind, but will one day return to again. It makes life that much more bearable. It's easy to wish away life, to become excited as you get another day closer to going home (or whatever you're looking forward to). 

Yet I hate wishing away these days. I will never be this young again, or in this exact situation again. After all, what other time in life will I be able to live in an apartment just outside New York City with some of my closest friends as my roommates? When will I have the opportunity to work for virtually any media outlet that I want merely because I live within 30 minutes of the media capital of the world? 

I am so blessed, and yet I still find myself wishing away the days. While what I have waiting for me back in California may be worth counting down these days, I also desperately wish to enjoy the present. 

So in the meantime, I am grateful for Skype. I look forward to the future, but I also cling to the present. Thank goodness for technology.