As I made my way to class this morning I felt a sense of numbness, yet I felt a sense of comfort. The cold and grey overcast sky captured the mood. North Central will never be the same after the tragedy this weekend. But, this campus has proved something so dear, something that people strive their entire lives to perfect: to be a family.
I did not know Shaun and cannot imagine the pain that those closest to him are going through. My heart goes out to him, his family and his friends. Yet, I don't think there is a kid on this campus that hasn't been affected by his undeserved passing. Walking to class I could see the heartbroken faces of students who knew and loved Shaun. But, for every person I saw looking like they were ready to break, I saw a person there to pick them up. Whether it was a smile, a friendly hello, a hug or tearful embrace, someone was there.
I am still in shock to the situation, why and how could such a terrible happen. I'm sure that we are all wondering the same thing...why him? I don't know that there is an answer to the question--because from what I have heard--Shaun was an amazing person. His life was taken without warrant yet he is teaching us such an important lesson. Don't take a single moment for granted, more importantly, don't take the people in your life for granted. Shaun's death brought this campus together and has shown everyone how important we are to each other.
Facebook might be overrated, but the hundreds of people who have changed their profile picture to (NC Family) means something. It makes me take a look around and see how big of a support system we have. Shaun has taught that the most important thing in life is the relationships that lie within it. His passing will never be deserved, but his memory will always be cherished and loved.
Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal.