Rising from the ashes of chaos

As chaotic as our college lives may seem, most of us can say we’ve got somewhat of a scheduled routine at the prime of our lives. Regardless of the hectic running here and there to attend meetings, completing assignments and arriving promptly to work, most of us agree that we are content. However, imagine if your life was suddenly turned upside down by an unspeakable tragedy. How would you cope after a sole event had altered your life for the worse?

By Tiffany Gilbert

Editor in Chief

As chaotic as our college lives may seem, most of us can say we’ve got somewhat of a scheduled routine at the prime of our lives.  Regardless of the hectic running here and there to attend meetings, completing assignments and arriving promptly to work, most of us agree that we are content.  However, imagine if your life was suddenly turned upside down by an unspeakable tragedy.  How would you cope after a sole event had altered your life for the worse?

Over the course of winter break, I learned of such tragedies that are life altering.  A student passed away as a result of a car accident, and another lost everything in a fire.
Coping with such loss does not have to be an independent process.  True friends and family will always lend a shoulder to cry on.  After attending two and half years here at SHU, I’ve noticed a considerable amount of people who are willing to help in a time in distress.  Our tiny community hands out the kindness and benevolence while expecting nothing in return.

Even when helping hands wave at you from all directions offering condolences, sympathy, or a monetary donation, can also cause more of an overwhelming anxiety.  Accepting money from the goodness of an acquaintances’ heart can often trigger someone’s unattractive pride attribute.  It’s hard to deal with the inevitable tragedy originally and yet the event is highlighted by condolences and compassion.

The school environment may seem too intense in a time of distress.  You may not feel like it is the best place to be.  Your studies and schoolwork can be an escape from reality.  Curling up with a best-selling, yet mandatory English Lit novel may create a temporary microcosm of perfection where the mind’s escape could bring you back refreshed to retackle actuality.

In the end, what does not destroy you ultimately makes you stronger.  With each difficult barrier thrown in your path is a new opportunity to reconstruct a more determined you.  Allow others to reach out to you and accept their consideration.  Try to remain focused on your obligations and borrow that shoulder to cry on.