by Ellen Huang
We all have times when we feel on the outside. How does anybody continue to
give back to the community when this feeling reduces the desire to even try?
We visited Point Loma Nazarene University, a faith-based college campus in
San Diego to look into their push forward for creating and celebrating a diverse
community. Through the leaders of college clubs, we found words of wisdom,
self-care advice, and spiritual affirmation. Let them speak to you.
Ben Kapule
Vice President of Hui O Hawai’i
On community: “Aloha kekahi i ke kahi.”-Love one another
“Ho’ihi aku Ho’ihi mai.” Give respect to get respect.
“These are just simple phrases that we say in Hawai’i. The main gist of this is basically just to love one another, with everything going on in the world right now...I truly think that if everyone just shows a little aloha to everyone we are taking a step in the right direction."
Delaney O’Keefe
Co-Leader of Voices of Love
On empowerment: “Always listen, but never hesitate to speak your mind. Never, never, never give up because it gets better... and then it gets hard again...but it always gets better. Love and trust yourself no matter what.”
Joshua Abaca
President of Asian Student Union
On how to recenter: “A little habit that personally helps me get through a stressful day is to stop, close my eyes, and take three deep breaths. Not only does this help me relax and oxygenate my body, but exclusively focusing on my breathing helps clear my mind for a slight moment so that I can be ready to jump into a task. Appreciate the little things...like breathing.”
Evan Hamner
President of Association of Latin American Students
On the importance of rest: “I am a child of God, which means someone loves and supports me wherever I go. God wants me to be a light to the world but recognizes that I need a rest or Sabbath once in a while. Find a relaxing or self-reflecting hobby that you can turn to when life gets rough or confusing."
Jazielle Hubbard
Secretary of Black Student Union
On how to love yourself: “I feel that the way I best love myself is through surrounding myself with those who affirm who I am, and allowing me to fully experience my emotions. As much as I try to deny them, they are part of who I am, and those in my life remind me that I am loved for who I am in my entirety!"
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