I go to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have not publicly commented about the shootings that occurred here this week because honestly, it is a heavy and painful subject. My thoughts are very unclear – but that is why I am writing.
I woke up on Wednesday morning and went on Facebook, by 9am, my entire news feed was flooded with the beautiful faces of Deah Barakat, 23; Yusor Abu-Salha, 21; and Razan Abu-Salha, 19. Of course one of the first things I was struck with was the fact they were Muslim. Immediately I was outraged and hurt and confused, how could something so tragic and hateful happen to them, here in this beautiful town I call home?
These three individuals were shining stars in our community. Deah and Yusor were newlyweds of only six weeks. Razan was Yusor’s sister. Deah was a student here in the Dental School. Yusor had just graduated from NC State University, and was planning to enter the Dental School next fall. Razan was a brilliant artist studying at NC State University. They all willing served our community and had dreams to positively impact the world.
Now, you have to understand something about UNC– we are a community. We support each other, encourage one another, and live by the Carolina Way (doing something because it is right, always)… and this week we were mourning together. The unity I see on this campus every day, but especially in the face of this tragedy has been humbling.
On Wednesday night at 6:30 pm, thousands of students from all walks of life gathered in the pit. A projector screen had pictures of Deah, Yusor, and Razan playing on it. Their smiles radiated from each and every one. At the same time, tiny, little, white candles were passed around from student to student. One by one, all of the candles were lit from sharing your neighbor’s flame. These little flames were so easily distinguished, just like life is. I felt it my duty to protect my flame from the wind and people passing by.
The message of the night, over and over again, was peace and love. The feeling throughout this campus the past few days, has been peace and love. The message everyone should take away from this is peace and love. The best way to honor Deah, Yusor, and Razan, would be to live in peace and love. No one has all the answers, but I believe that in moving on from this, peace and love is a good place to start.
2087
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