Within a month of each other, two of the least sentimental people I know each sat me down and confessed that their greatest regret is not keeping a journal. 

Some posts on Sidechat or comments displayed a misunderstanding of the nature of trauma, suggesting that because the threat turned out to not be real, people who experienced genuine fear and developed plans to fight a potential attacker should be able to move on quickly. This idea does not reflect how the human nervous system works.

To grow, we have to put ourselves in situations that are uncomfortable and scary. Running away at the first sign of failure prevents us from growing, both as students and people. 

At WashU, ambition can be a given. However, taking on too much can lead to burnout. The phrase “something’s got to give” can be used to describe that breaking point. In overwhelming times, it is a reminder that it’s okay to let go of things to make room for yourself.

Maintaining relationships requires effort from all sides, and it’s crucial to remember that staying connected is a shared responsibility. 

“Self-care” is often limited to its consumerist contexts and is stigmatized when expanded to include mental health accommodations that challenge existing structures and norms.

You are doing enough.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Use this year to learn to adjust to change.

With progressively inclement weather and new mutations of COVID-19, opportunities for Washington University students to safely socialize are becoming increasingly limited.

That’s why we ask that the Washington University community starts this spring with an important goal in mind—to remain empathetic.