Every day now it seems someone has died
and something tragic has happened. All I can think of is how truly
unfair life is. Some of the greatest people I know, suffer the most
it seems. And why? There isn't any clear answer.
I used to
come up with things in my head that helped ease the pain of losing
people I loved. I used to think God needed them sooner or their time
on earth was finished along with their purpose. But I don't know if I
believe that or not anymore. It's hard to believe that when things
happen that are so incredibly unpredictable and so unbelievably
unfair. I guess I think it's all just out of our control and the
reasons behind things are far from my own understanding. And it hurts
to feel and think this way. I want a happy ending. I want closure.
But I also can't pretend to be someone that I'm not. So in a way I
feel relief admitting the world is a mysterious, beautiful, and
painful place. And that I don't have all the answers like I thought I
did.
The other thing that comes to mind in tragedy is I find
myself asking, "Why am I not dead yet? Why am I still alive?"
And although I do not have the answer to this question, there seems
to be a force pushing me towards not taking life for granted. Life is
not some fairy tale. Life is really really hard at times,
and when I say "hard" I mean excruciating and nearly
unbearable. And yet life can also be heartwarming and full of passion
and inspiring, which we must never forget. Our dreams and hopes and
prayers keep us going even when all hell is upon us. So we must cling
to what we love and truly cherish the people we have in our lives. We
must live in the present without fear of tomorrow, because this
moment is all we are promised. Things change in an instant, and even
the things that gradually pass us by are heartbreaking. There seems
to never be enough time. We want another day, another moment, another
word. But right now is all we know we have.
The greatest gift
our beloved who have passed give us is the ability to live in
gratitude and to strive to be fearless. In the end, what really
matters? Not our cars, not our jobs, not our trophy wives, but love
and forgiveness. The people who stood by us and believe in us. Even
the people who wronged us. We need to look at others as if we are
about to die which allows us to look with eyes of unconditional love.
Will we still be holding that grudge on our death bed? No. We will
have wished to tell them they are forgiven and you love them
regardless.
Life is always still a gift. Today is a gift.
Yesterday was a gift. And tomorrow we hope we have. So do the things
you dream to do NOW. Be fearless and loving and speak with your
heart. And mostly, FORGIVE those who have hurt you. No one is
perfect. We are all a mess trying to figure out this life we are
given. So love with all you have. Love even more than you'd like to.
You will never regret loving others. You will only regret not saying
so in their absence. Today is a gift, take it and be grateful.
Recommended for you
Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
Trending Topics
Trending Stories
Best of Health and Wellness![RBF]()
![woman in black turtleneck shirt smiling beside woman in black shirt]()
