Coping with Grief

In the past week, our campus experienced three tragedies. Three of our students passed away in a car accident and two are recovering in the hospital. They were on their way to compete in a tournament when they lost control of their car. As I walked through the slush and melting snow on my way to class today I can't help but wonder, what if they had left this afternoon and not last Friday? The accident left our campus solemn and dark, but we are slowly recovering the smiles and laughter. Going to class this past Monday was pretty tough. One of the deceased used to sit behind me during my morning class. I was unable to look behind me at the empty seat that will remain empty until the end of the term. It felt surreal as if someone was playing a prank. Everything happened so suddenly, so unexpectedly. It was hard to take in. Many of us cried, some day and night, for the injustice of it all, and for making us realize that we are fragile and mortal, something that is easily forgotten in a safe inclosed community. They were so young and full of life. They had so much ahead of them. So much promise. Tragedies bring communities together, and while it is difficult to experience the constant rising and ebbing of emotions, we all willingly go through this difficult period together. This morning all the students on campus flocked to the post office. There we found white carnations in each of our mailboxes, signifying support and love from our school's alumni and the parents of our students. I felt an overwhelming sense of bliss; I was deeply moved.
We will never forget 2/28/14.