In recent weeks, the absence of my editorial on these pages hasn’t solely been due to my usual lack of enthusiasm for writing. There’s been a lot on my mind, prompting a deliberate choice to take a break from writing for a while. It’s impossible to overlook what is unfolding in Israel and Gaza right now, a conflict that echoes across the globe. As a student leader in The Stute and Hillel, the Jewish community organization here at Stevens, I’ve found myself grappling with a weighty expectation—that urges students directly impacted by the conflict to be vocal and to speak out. It’s important to acknowledge the toll that this conflict takes on individuals. The pressure for those most directly impacted, including myself, to be the loudest voices prevents the genuine processing of the complex array of emotions of trauma, fear, anger, and grief that accompany such events. As committed as I am to supporting my peers, this expectation denies student leaders the space necessary to navigate these emotions.
Being a student leader is a role that demands resilience and empathy, particularly in times of crisis. Leaders need to step up and provide support to show other students the path to solidarity. However, we have to recognize that this responsibility becomes challenging when leaders are grappling with their struggles simultaneously. Over the past few weeks, I have been dealing with physical sickness, mental exhaustion, and emotional drainage. This isn’t a plea for sympathy but an acknowledgment of my current state, offering a glimpse into the pressures faced by student leaders. The expectation to rise above personal turmoil to guide others in the context of these conflicts places an immense strain on individuals already dealing with their share of burdens. I’ve been fortunate to receive incredible support from my peers. Yet, in terms of writing, it’s been important for me to claim the necessary space for self-care and reflection.
This is not to justify my absence from these pages but to shed light on the realities of my position, particularly during times of intense global conflict. I hope this can serve as a reminder that behind the titles and responsibilities are individuals navigating life just like anyone else. Additionally, it is not just student leaders that are struggling right now. I encourage you to reach out to anyone you know identifies as Jewish, Muslim, Israeli, Palestinian, or Arab and any other peers who are affected right now, because we are all struggling. I also want to emphasize that it is not about taking sides, but about putting politics aside and checking in with your friends. Regardless of religion or politics, those affected appreciate your sympathy and understanding of their feelings of fear, frustration, and sadness.
In the spirit of transparency, the weeks of silence have been a deliberate choice, a conscious effort to take a break for myself. After stepping back from writing for a while, I hope to regain a sense of normalcy and return with a refreshed outlook. Luckily, we have the built-in break of Thanksgiving around the corner. I look forward to spending the next week at home with my family, friends, and pets, and I hope you all have a restful break as well. Happy Thanksgiving!
