We Are One

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.