The world is going to end in a few short weeks. On Dec. 21, there’s going to be a big explosion. Or all the power is going to go out. Or we’re all just going to disappear into thin air.
Well, at least that’s what some people want us to believe.
The truth is, we’re probably not all going to die. But we don’t know for sure. And to be honest, no one really ever knows how much time he or she has left.
So this whole Dec. 21 apocalypse scenario got me thinking: What are some of the activities I’ve always wanted to do? Or the foods I’ve never tried but always wanted to? Or the places I’ve wanted to visit?
After finals are over, I think we should all take some time and think about what we want to get out of life. Do something crazy! On New Year’s Eve, go to New York City — maybe brave Times Square and all those people for once in your life. Take that extra shot you promised yourself you wouldn’t take. Kiss your crush at midnight. Or just do something else you wouldn’t normally do.
Working over winter break? No problem. Take a sick day. Go skydiving. That’s right — ignore everyone telling you how unsafe it is. Go to Build-A-Bear; who cares if you’re too old? Go to that Thai restaurant you’ve always wanted to try, because in this economy, it could be closed tomorrow (though it probably won’t, because Thai food is actually really good). If you wait too long to do something, chances are you aren’t going to do it at all.
Even better, what about giving back to your community? I’ve never donated blood before. I’ve always been too grossed out. But maybe it’s time I did. After all, there are tons of people out there who are sick and could potentially use it. Or what about serving at your local soup kitchen? Or volunteering at your local children’s hospital? You’d be surprised by how little it takes to help and to make someone’s day.
What about traveling? Never been to the West Coast? Or Europe? Or Australia? Spend money you don’t have and go on an adventure. We’re in college, after all, and the real world is approaching fast. Faster than most of us would like, so now is the time to be a little irresponsible.
Basically, what I’m saying is it’s always a good idea to step out of your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised by how much you learn about a different culture, a new look at life and, more importantly, yourself.
So put down that textbook for 15 minutes. Stop writing that essay. Take a little time and jot a list of some of the things you’ve always wanted to do but “haven’t had time” to do. That way, when the day comes, you’ll have all the time in the world.
I would recommend doing at least one item on your list before Dec. 21, though. Just in case.
David Oliver is a junior journalism major. He can be reached at opinionumdbk@gmail.com.
