If you read the command of the title and thought to yourself, “You can’t tell me what to do, article”, then to you I say, “Do you speak French?” and to that you say “No, why?” and to that I say “Just curious, but let me tell you why you should follow the instructions of a random opinion article in a college newspaper.”

The freedom assumed by each Horned Frog upon the beginning of our time here is intoxicating- we can do whatever we want, when we want. The potential of every day and night is only bounded by law and judgment of others, and though we cannot shrug off the law, we can easily “YOLO” the judgment and proceed with our youthful musings. Mom and dad aren’t there to watch over our shoulders, and as freshman Patrick Browning says, “We are adults.” Though this “young, wild and free” life brings excitement, it also brings distance from our old lives.

Absorbed by our new world, we become busy with classes, clubs, Greek organizations and friends, and we can quickly forget about the life and people we knew before college. Sadly, though we move on, those that we leave behind do not necessarily move on from us. At the house whose curfew you now joke about exist parents and siblings that still care deeply about you. In the town whose boredom you now mock exist friends who would still sacrifice anything for you.

These people miss you. While times have changed and we have all started new chapters in our lives, it is important that we not forget where we came from and who made us who we are today. Just because we move away doesn’t mean we have to move on.

I understand that we can get caught up in things and forget to make time for those back home- I am just as guilty as anyone. But staying in touch with those that care about you is important enough to take ten minutes out of your day. If you still are crunched for time, just call when you are walking to class, or text when you are doing some homework. No matter where or how you do it, think about someone who misses you right now, and contact them.

By showing that you care about someone enough to reach across distance and proactively contact them, you can make someone’s day. My own mother, in response to a “Hey” text I sent, once responded, “Thank you…For texting me…makes me feel special-Love you.” 

Though she is not the best texter, her response remains true. Our families and friends love us more than we even know, and just showing that we love them too can make them feel incredibly special. If you’re feeling especially caring, ask them about their life. Ask them how their day is. Demonstrating interest in the lives of others, especially those who you do not see often, is an powerful way to make someone feel important. In addition to how happy you can make them, they can also help you.

They can give you advice, talk about your feelings, or just be comfortable with you in a way no one else can. No one gives advice like Dad, or even Mom and your best friend from home. Also, simply talking to someone that loves you will make you feel loved, and that is a great feeling.

TCU is an incredible place that offers endless activities and fun. Though it is important that we take advantage of such opportunity, it is crucial that we do not forget those that miss us. People in your life demonstrated great sacrifice and love to get you here today. But just because we have arrived at our destination does not mean we can neglect the relationships that compose us. Though many things can draw our attention and affection, life is truly about the people that you love and that love you. They will be there for you matter what, and that’s a thing to cherish. I know you have a test today, and I know that later you have a bunch of meetings. But call your mom. You’ll be happy that you did. 

Cody Westphal is a sophomore economics and finance double major from Friendswood, Texas.