College is full of new beginnings and new people. You’ll pass a lot of people on your way to class, give them an acknowledging nod, or you’ll see people in your dorm as you enter and leave your room.
But we should be kind to everyone we meet. You’re going to encounter a lot of people that may be having great days or awful days. They may be deciding to switch their major to something entirely new or figure out what to do with their life or they may be ecstatic to go on their first date with someone or celebrate a passing grade. You’ll encounter people who are masquerading behind grand smiles and bright eyes. Even the smallest of smiles or the smallest compliment can make someone’s day better.
We all think that college is so great when we’re in high school -- it’s something we look forward to for years until it actually happens. Granted, a lot of the college experience is just that, a grand or elaborate experience with all the emotions (from my personal experience mostly happy emotions peppered with sad). But when the day finally comes and you’re actually at the college of your choice it can be stressful, you can get homesick, the workload can be too much, and it can be too much pressure. Sometimes you may feel all alone, but it’ll be OK, because you’re not the only one who feels this way.
You see, we don’t know the whole story behind someone’s grim expression or uncharacteristic rude behavior. You don’t know what their day’s been like. For example: you don’t know by my cheery attitude that every day I am breaking inside- something or someone has shattered me. You don’t know that, I don’t let you see that. I try to maintain a happy demeanor and mostly I do, but the happiest people can be the ones that are hurting the most.
If you are feeling this way I highly suggest connecting with the counseling services that your campus offers. If you don’t feel like it’s drastic enough to speak with a counselor, speak with someone you trust. Seek the support of a good friend or your favorite professor. There’s a reason certain people have been put in your life at particular points in your life, lean on them- especially if they lean on you.
So be kind to everyone you meet, because you don’t know what he or she is going through. They don’t know what you’re going through. Someone will always be masquerading behind a cheery smile and quick wave. So be kind and people will be kind to you when you need some kindness in your own life.
