The Observer, March 9, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 20
A Fresh Perspective: Acts of kindness, compassion priceless
I am not exactly sure if many of you can relate to this, but I am an only child. For my whole life, I have had my own room and, for the most part, my parents' undivided attention. Because of these blessings, college has been a difficult lifestyle adjustment; however, I believe that it has changed me for the better.
Before I came to college, I often took the privilege of being an only child for granted. Throughout my school career , I had been fortunate enough to take advantage of a 24-hour quiet study and goof-off space in my bedroom. My parents also took a great deal of their own time and used it to prod me on to academic success.
Speaking of academics, college has been a massive change for me. The most profound challenge for me was having a roommate. It was different to share the space that I was always used to having to myself. In addition, I was suddenly thrown into an extremely social environment. Spending time with other students was never exactly my favorite pastime, since it was usually much easier to keep to myself. However, being abruptly exposed to these things has been a positive experience. Though at times I still struggle, I have learned how to deal with roommates and floor-mates alike. My social skills have developed and I feel like this year has been extremely encouraging thus far and can only get better as it glides by.
But enough about my story. I am sure that everyone has their own respective problems with adjusting to college. Underneath all of the difficulties I've observed, my friends have a common thread that links them together – compassion for people. Whether it comes from being an only child or another situation, breaking into socially uncomfortable situations can be incredibly challenging.
As we go out into the world, it is inevitable that we must learn how to deal with all kinds of people. Even though some of them are difficult to tolerate, it is so important to cultivate kindness for every person that we meet. I am by no means saying that we should make friends with everyone we see on the street, but it is necessary to develop friendliness and tolerance.
Life is indeed too short for anything but kindness. Through this past academic year, I have transformed from a rather introverted only child into a person who is more open to talking with others. When I treat others with respect and warmth, I find that I feel a sense of inner satisfaction and people generally respect me in return as well. By adopting a policy of compassion, you may happen to brighten the day of a student who is struggling. The inner rewards that both you and that student reap are simply priceless.
McGreehan is a freshman Viola Performance/Music Education major involved in Symphonic Winds and Case/UC Symphony Orchestra.
