Honors College Art & Science of Emotions Fall 2017 (12:00 p.m.) Sadness Journal | Page 15

Come Together
RaeAnne Goodwin
The emotion of sadness is not one that many people have any desire to experience. In
fact, it is perhaps the most actively avoided emotion of them all. It is difficult to think of
what kind of positive role this emotion may play in society when a large majority of society
constantly attempts to evade it. Of course, it is not always evadable, as certain situations can
evoke it irrepressibly. Circumstances in which a person may find themselves feeling alone
and in duress can easily tip the emotional scale from a place of stability to a state of depres-
sion. College is a prime example of such a circumstance.
It is apparent that the education of youth is crucial towards building an innovative
society that can be prosperous. From the beginning of their school experience, children are
taught that learning is important and teachers strive to make it enjoyable. They create games
and a cheerful environment in which children are encouraged to be creative. Fast forward
from the frivolous wonderment of elementary school to the horror known as middle school
and the change is already becoming evident. Stress inducing tests and quizzes are now plen-
tiful, recess has been discontinued, and socialization during class hour has now been widely
diminished. Still, teachers attempt to balance this with creative lessons and interactive field
trips. From this point, it becomes an uphill climb for students to find the same enjoyment
with learning they once had. As they transition into high school the pressure rises. Conversa-
tions with teachers, academic counselors, and parents change drastically as directions begin
pouring in from all sides. “Grades matter now more than ever if you want to go to college.
And you must go to college. How will you get a good job otherwise? Speaking of jobs, do
you have one yet? It’s important to gain as much job experience as you can so start early.
Oh, and don’t forget about volunteering, you need those hours to graduate! Speaking of
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