These Things Matter
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

These Things Matter

I'm at a loss for words, and usually that never happens.

6
These Things Matter
Gaye Levy

I'm at a loss for words, and usually that never happens. But here we are. It is too exhausting to try to make sense of the tragedy that persists in our society, and all that I have left are silent tears while I watch yet another newscast about senseless loss of life. Worst of all, I don't even have the strength to explain why we so desperately need justice to those who still insist that these are non-issues.

These things are issues. They matter.

The U.S. is a violent place to live; I've fled to the suburbs of Louisville and double check my doors and windows at night because the number of murders has risen so high, it may soon break city record. When I think about setting foot outside of my apartment, I can't help but imagine someone opening fire while I wait in line to order my food, watch a movie or select my groceries. I scroll quickly through my social media so I don't have to read one more ignorant comment about "thugs" or the Second Amendment; thus, I had to block Donald Trump on Twitter.

I don't understand how anyone can hear "50 people killed, 53 wounded" and think about some mythical character snatching their gun away before considering all of the human life lost. I don't understand how anyone can loudly proclaim that the "Black Lives Matter" movement is divisive when black people have literally been treated like dirt in this country since they got here. I don't understand how we can continue in this years' electoral process as if it's normal that one candidate can incite violence at his rallies and the other has a shadier past than a willow tree. I don't understand how we can see footage of the absolute chaos and terror occurring overseas but we are adamant in turning our backs on refugees who want only to find a safe space. The complete lack of empathy and compassion among us has driven me to almost accepting defeat.

I think we should all take a moment to be ashamed of ourselves.

...

And now that the moment has passed, let's start tomorrow fresh. Say a prayer or offer a moment of reflection (whatever your style) for the families who have lost loved ones, whether through violence, disease, war, or disaster. Check any judgmental thoughts that cross your mind. Be patient with everyone around you...they're all trying to navigate through the uncertainty as best as they can. Then give yourself a minute to count all of the things that are going right in your life. It helps.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

71085
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

132692
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments