"Mother, I offer my prayers to you, for the healing of the earth."

This group remained outside the Brussels Stock Exchange from mid-afternoon until after dark, singing their call for peace around the world.

Colorful candles lit up the night as supporters gathered to hear the music and honor the victims of the world's most recent ISIS-driven terrorist attack. Flags from numerous nations were strung across the steps in a show of solidarity. On the left side of the building, a sign written in French discouraged hatred of Muslims as part of the road to recovery. It was a beautiful sight, witnessing men and women of all ages offer stunning bouquets and heartfelt letters in remembrance of the unjust pain that smothered their city just two weeks ago. Tears were shed and hearts were heavy, but an overall feeling of love was in the air.

My friends and family were not thrilled when I informed them of my decision to travel to Brussels this weekend.

"What if there's another attack while you're there?"

"You can just visit another city this weekend."

"It's not worth going if you don't make it home safely."

Perhaps they were right to some extent. It became clear to me that the Belgian city was still on edge this weekend when my friends and I witnessed a riot right outside our hotel. It was intimidating to watch large groups of police gather in a standoff with some rowdy young protesters demanding a decimation of Islamic presence. Curiosity and fear occupied my thoughts as we were kept out of the shopping district due to a "security threat" Sunday afternoon. In those moments I thought to myself, I should've listened. I should've stayed in a safe place this weekend.

But isn't that the goal of terrorism? To kill our spirits in exchange for security? To put us in a state of constant fear until we give in to violent demands? To keep us from living our lives?

Not me.

I refuse to let their hatred stand in my way. If there's one thing terrorists cannot control, it's the unpredictability of life. It's impossible to know when our last day on earth will be, or whether or not a terrorist will be the cause. We might as well live a little before that day arrives.

Experiencing the beauty and history of Brussels this weekend was well worth the occasional heart palpitations. I fell in love with the Grand Palace, the chocolate-drizzled waffles, and the resilient citizens I passed on every street. I made the decision to live rather than exist in fear. While I'm not suggesting to completely throw caution to the wind, this is a decision I am highly encouraging everyone to make.

To quote the eloquent Kevin G. from "Mean Girls," "Don't let the haters stop you from doing your thang." When I landed in Rome this January for my semester abroad, I had every intention of exploring as much of Europe as my college budget would allow in four months. ISIS is not about to prevent me from realizing my dreams. For anyone considering study abroad in the future, don't let them or any other terrorist group stop you, either.