“I have noticed that people are dealing too much with the negative, with what is wrong. … Why not try the other way, to look [and] see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?”

— Thích Nhất Hạnh, Vietnamese author and peace activist

It’s August again and incessant complaints about school have been mumbled, tweeted and heard. Although these are inevitable and some post-summer sadness is totally normal, it might actually be affecting your homework, happiness, and high school experience in a very negative way.

Hours of homework and ringing alarm clocks may seem like they’re pervading your lives, but amidst the stress it is important to recognize the incredible opportunity and blessing it is to attend Nazareth. When you feel like it’s too much, look on the bright side and remember how lucky you are to have an education. Don’t forget about all of the breaks: weekends, dances, holidays, sports, and birthdays that help alleviate any school related stress, making high school more bearable. In addition, the harder you work during class, the more enjoyable these breaks are; tedious studying does not only help for good grades.

Another important part of keeping it positive is turning to friends – old and new – for laughter or support. Senior Christiana Romano explains that “even though its sad to see summer end, its very exciting to be back at school as a senior… I can’t wait to make the most of the year with my Naz family.” In fact, countless alum have described the people of Nazareth as their family years after they have left. A strong, well-rounded social life will improve the school’s atmosphere and provide sources of help or friendship on every floor.

While staying connected with friends and teachers is essential to a positive mindset at school, sometimes it is taken too far. “It seems like most of the time students use their study hall as a break, but I usually work harder during it,” says Kevin Saladino, a senior. “It’s much easier to get stuff done while I’m in my school mindset than at home.” In other words, try and use lunch and before and after school to socialize or relax, and stay as productive as possible throughout the rest of the day. Keeping it positive during grueling lessons or homework definitely pays off in the end.

Although high school will never be the seemingly perfect place that is sometimes painted in movies, don’t miss out on all the chances to try to improve yourself and, equally important, your friendships. Whether it is your first or last year here at Nazareth, you can still create a place worth remembering long after you have received your diploma. You can still choose to make the school year one blooming with positivity and success.