COLUMN: A message to those struggling
This is a message to other students, like myself, to continue fighting every day.
This is for that person who has an exam tomorrow, but cannot seem to garner the energy to study because their depression dulls their mind.
This is to the freshmen in the residence halls whose roommates fear what they do not understand.
This is for the person who hides their depression and anxiety. You are loved.
Though you feel alone and your thoughts of desolation keep you up late into the morning, you are a beautiful creature of worth. Depression and anxiety do not define you. You are more than how this illness makes you suffer. You are a human being who was born to thrive in your passions.When you feel your heart pierced by pain and your body tremble in tearful submission to your illness, you are strong. If society drags you to a point of cutting, or dieting, or drinking, or any other form of self-harm: You are not alone. You are loved. Making it through the battle makes you a survivor, a warrior.
Throughout my three years at Central Michigan University, I have been surrounded by warriors who will not end the battle until the bell of justice has been rung. I have encountered others who have survived some of the most desolate situations. Although alone you might feel entwined in memories and remorse, you are strong. The sun will rise again.
If you feel you are walking this road alone, just remember that you are part of a universal dance with a choreographed role. If you cannot find out what that dance is, make your own movements. As Walt Whitman so brilliantly penned, “You are here – That life exists and identity. That the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse.”
I do not know the battle you are fighting, but I know that you can win.
We live in a society that criticizes us for every step we take – taking too much room or too little; being too loud or too quiet. We carry burdens that could be driving us into the ground, but we will continue to stand and fight for one another.
I believe in you, and you are loved. Please love and believe in yourself in return, because you are more valuable than you could ever imagine.
