College is challenging. It is challenging mentally, of course, but it can take a toll on your emotional, spiritual and physical well-being as well. It would be foolish to think that you could go through four years of college and not need some help.

My freshman year I didn't really understand how much I would come to rely on my community for support. Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, I entered college with no idea of how drained I could become. This happens to everyone. We think we have things handled and then BOOM. You fail your Religion midterm. Your roommate talks behind your back. Your best friend from back home says they don't want to be your friend any more. Your relationship ends. Another young black man is killed. Your mental illness comes back, again. You feel hopeless. When crisis strikes, we need each other.

Hate can tear people apart so much that it can be hard to put the pieces back together. This is where love steps in. Love comforts, holds, encourages, listens and empowers. When I am feeling sad, hurt or lonely, even a hug, hello or short text reminds me that I am valued and cared about. These things are not difficult to do. About 1 in 4 college students struggle with mental illness. When so many people need comfort and support, how can we pretend like nothing is wrong? When we see how our black brothers and sisters are being murdered, how can we say nothing? When you notice the girl on your floor has stopped coming to floor dinner, how can you let her sit alone? When your roommate turns their back on God, how can you not pray for revival? Take action and show the love of Christ to everyone, because He showed love to even you. Without love, we would not be.

You may not struggle with mental illness or the destruction of a community, but each one of us has needed help getting through the day before. Kind words from a classmate, a hug from your friend or phone call from your parents can make part of the pain dissipate. Small acts of love and kindness can help in gigantic ways we may never see. Your "how are you?" could mean the world to someone. Don't underestimate the power of love.

Everyone needs someone. Be that someone today.

***

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, contact the Broene Counseling Center for free counseling and help. In the case of a mental health emergency, Crisis Care hours are week days from 3:30-4:30.

616-526-6123

broene@calvin.edu