The past week has been filled with chaos, anger, grief, and maybe even relief. With this COVID-19 outbreak, boil water order, and the Marshall Fire, many of us have not been thinking about what life would be like back at school. The thought of school alone could bring many feelings of stress, anxiety, or maybe even excitement. Before school was back in session, there were numerous posts made about the Marshall Fire on two of the most popular Social media platforms among high school students, Instagram and Snapchat.

I saw many Go Fund Me posts, members of the community stepping up by offering donations, resources, and even their own roof. In fact, there was a petition going around, “Support for BVSD students affected by the Marshall fire” created by high school students. The petition was about the demand for more time for victims to process everything that had just unfolded and a delay to start school. This disaster gathered young, powerful voices to step up and advocate for those who may feel silenced. 

There was a certain Instagram post made on @mohimix that stood out to me. As I browsed through the comments, I was able to feel through the screen others’ frustration, fear, and concern for school opening back up, as some would say “too soon”. 

I’ve heard both sides of the story. I know of some who are eager to go back to school for a sense of community and support. Meanwhile, there are those who will do anything to stay with their loved ones as they try to navigate their way through this challenging time. 

The one and only part of this entire tragedy that has made me feel warm inside was seeing the overwhelming love and support from all of the communities. Everyone coming together to support one another. 

Although I personally was not a victim, I am still a member of the community and know of many loved individuals who were affected. This tragedy hurt all of us in one way or another. We all have burning questions and may not have all of the exact answers. My heart still hurts to see so much pain and others feeling as though they do not have the support to get through this. 

Right now, we are living in a world of chaos and it’s extremely easy to forget the importance of kindness as we all have a lot going on and others have no clue what battles people are fighting. 

• Remember –

Allow yourself to feel any emotions that may come up. All emotions are valid. 

You are not alone. It’s okay to struggle sometimes but you don’t have to go through it alone.  

You matter! 

Take care of yourself. 

Take it one step at a time. 

 Mental health matters just as much as physical health. 

CHS AND BVSD ARE HERE FOR US WARRIORS. <3