The loss of a loved one is never easy, regardless of the deceased’s or the mourner’s age. Many college students have probably only experienced the death of an older relative or a family member. The loss probably stirred emotions then and wasn’t easy to deal with.

When it comes to losing a peer, though, the reaction triggered is magnified. The loss becomes more real.

Grief is never easy to handle. It is painful, but –and though it may not seem like it at this time — it subsides and ,eventually, gives way to feelings of reverence and appreciation.

Campus has recently experienced a loss – a loss of a life taken too soon. The death of Abbie Brynda came as a shock to everyone on campus. Those who knew her and those who didn’t united together in grief.

People, however, have different ways of dealing with sadness and loss. While some may choose to surround themselves with family and friends, others may choose to withdraw and grieve in solitude. If you feel you can’t deal with this on your own, then please – please – use the help offered to you on campus. Choose to talk to a counselor – and if not that, then a friend.

Losing a young person forces us students to ponder our own lives. The reality suddenly hits and we realize we are not indestructible. Too often, we forget to cherish those around us and the moments we share with those we love – or even those we don’t.

It’s never too soon to make amends, to express our feelings to our family and friends and to do the things on our bucket list. Let’s all try and do what Abbie used to: seize the moment, never sit idle and stop and smell the flowers every once and a while.