I looked over my bank statements recently to get an idea of what I spent most of my money on this summer. To no surprise, the largest amount of money I spent was on gas, second to food, which was also not a surprise.   

Honestly, I was fine with that. To me, a full tank of gas is more valuable than the newest clothes or shoes. 

I value new experiences and adventures more than material objects. 

When I was younger, my parents would load my older brother and I up and we would depart for another state. When I was younger, I didn’t really appreciate all the effort and time my parents, especially my dad, put into making those vacations happen. 

Because of my parents I was able to see the Pacific Ocean, huge lakes and several species of animals you wouldn’t ever dream of seeing in South Dakota.  

This summer I made a point to take opportunities to travel and get away more than I ever have. You’re only young once, right? I can honestly say this summer was more memorable than any other I’ve had before.

 That is why a tank full of gas, the chance to see something new is so important; the opportunity to try something new. It’s time we start focusing less on material objects and start celebrating experiences and adventures.

I challenge you to save up gas money and put it to use. It’s a stunning paradise we live in and gas money gives us the chance to take it all in. 

Rachel Astleford is a nutrition & dietetics major at SDSU and can be reached at rachel.astleford@jacks.sdstate.edu.