Busy campus calls for place of solitude

It’s no secret that we live in a much faster-paced world than the days of our grandparents. Early mornings, late nights, and multiple deadlines often make people feel like they need a timeout from life.

Now more than ever, time for reflection, contemplation and a sanctuary you can feel at ease in is necessary for the spiritual well-being amongst all people.

If Pierce had a Reflection Room, it would be an allwelcoming and necessary space to add to the campus, as it would provide an area that is accepting and that caters to needs of all students - religious or not.

This space would not be for congregations or preaching, but for quiet prayer, reflection or meditation that would enable students to calm themselves spiritually, which would in turn enable them to focus and have a level head to concentrate on their academics.

Instead of creating a room to look like a chapel, temple or mosque, the Reflection Room interior should have seats and lots of floor space to be a quiet location, ideal for introspection and contemplation.

According to Student Health Center Director Beth Benne, some college students suffer from anxiety, and by providing a space for them to meditate and practice breathing techniques, it will contribute to optimal mental health and enhance coping strategies to deal with everyday life.

Some may argue that separation of church and state prevents places like reflection rooms from being on campuses, but these rooms transcend religion and provide an area for both the religious and non-religious.

Other university campuses around the country have already adapted to their students’ needs, such as California State University, Northridge, which has provided a space for the growing number of students, both religious and nonreligious, who need a place to unwind and relax in silence.

It is hard to cater to all communities, but by allowing a space for all students, the Reflection Room responds to the needs of students and symbolizes that these needs are important.

Pierce College views diversity as a strength, and if it establishes a Reflection Room, it can meet the needs of its diverse students. By using an unused room, perhaps one in the library courtyard, it would be a low-cost solution to a big problem, and would show that Pierce is sensitive to the multicultural needs of the society we serve.