I open the free newspaper stuffed onto my
hand as I enter the Tube and see a picture of a dead young boy. It grapples me.
In our society today, it’s sad to admit that I have become desensitized due to
the countless violent and distressing images I see on a daily basis. But this
one. This one sticks. It makes me ashamedly finally understand the humanity and
reality of the situation going on at the edge and across the Channel.
People my age, in my generation, have had
their lives torn apart and thrown into chaos by war. Do they not deserve to try
and rebuild and try and continue with their childhoods, teen years or even
young adult lives? I somehow try to parallel my daily goings on with the life
of another 19 going on 20 year Syrian female. She must enjoy music, I think.
Daydream and gossip incessantly about boys, have arguments with her parents and
stress about handing an assignment in on time. I then think, would I be brave
enough to risk my life to cross unknown shores? I dismiss the thought; I’m
scared to admit I’m completely dismayed by the actuality of it all. But the
girl I’ve created in my head cannot dismiss. She cannot escape and she cannot
trivialize.
Refugees should not be seen as problems and
burdens. We should open our arms and put ourselves within their shoes.
Understand their humanity. And
realize we are one and the same.
