Time for reflection, mourning necessary
Tuesday marked a sad day for every American, as we solemnly remembered our most infamous tragedy in the 21st century.
American flags were seen everywhere, and social media blew up with posts dedicated to looking back on the heroic souls killed 11 years ago. A tangibly morbid feeling hung in the air, as everyone seemed to walk a little more slowly and took time to appreciate the freedom and bravery our country stands for.
What students at our university did not see was a much needed day off to reflect on an event that has affected everyone in some way, shape or form. There are many people who know of someone who died or who was involved in the deplorable disaster. With such a horrific event that many USC students have lived through, a second memorial day of sorts — honoring those who died in 9/11 — would be an appropriate way for the university to allow students to reflect on one of our nation's biggest travesties.
For those whose loved ones killed on 9/11, a day of classes seems like a cruel way of handling an especially emotional time. A break from students' busy schedules would allow them to spend time mourning and working through a time of sorrow, and would permit them time to spend with those they're close to.
With such a morose event comes a need for reflection and pause from a normally hectic agenda. A holiday honoring those who selflessly served our country in a time of catastrophe would be a fitting way for USC to show its pride for our country, as well as respect to the students who were gravely affected by that day.
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