In the midst of tragedy, it is important to remember what is truly important: to be there for one another, remain optimistic, and stay strong. It is so easy to get caught up in the hate and devastation, to lose sight of your values as lines are drawn and sides are chosen. There has been a lot of hot topics in the media lately, ranging from the Stanford rape case to the shooting in Orlando, causing a lot of commotion as people clamor for answers and justice in light of such dark times. It’s okay to be angry, upset, shocked, or scared, but it’s important to remember that hate or rage isn’t going to solve any of our problems. It’s important that we remember to stand by one another, and up for one another, and do what we can to make things right.
We need to channel our anger into something that can make a difference, find some way to bring something positive about. We need to do what we can for each other to make sure we guard against going through these same issues and pains again. We need to stand together, stand up for our rights and stand up for what is right. We need to show love and compassion to our friends, family, community, nation, and world. We need to remember that it is okay to ask for help, that there is no shame in speaking out if someone has wronged or harmed us, that we are all liable to do what we can to help each other. We need to take action, not just be bystanders in a world where terror runs amuck. It is at times like these, when we sit on a precipice of hate and terror, where there is so much that we need to fight for and stand up for, that this becomes even more important. If we are afraid to tell our stories, to speak out against those who have wronged us, or speak up for those who need it, we are going to find ourselves living in a world that we are ashamed to be a part of.
We need to be brave, to really look at the world around us and notice when things don’t feel right. We need to not be afraid to get involved, because you never know who you might be helping. You’ll never know, unless you try. Sometimes, the smallest actions can change the entire trajectory of someone’s day, week, or even their life. So in light of the recent tragedies in the news, we need to step up. There is no wrong time to try to do what is right, whether it’s as simple as giving someone a ride if they’re lost or alone, or providing love and acceptance to someone who needs reassurance. We have the power to change the world, to spread positivity, to love one another, and stand up for each other. It may not always be easy, but we need to do what we can to help one another, just as you hope someone would for you if the roles were reversed.
