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 ‘time out’ 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, if would be all-welcoming and necessary space to add to campus as it provides an area that is accepting and that caters to needs of all students whether religious or not.
This space is would not be for congregations or preaching, but for quiet prayer, reflection or meditation that would enable students to calm themselves spiritually, which in turn, enables 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 college students suffer from anxiety and by providing a space for them to be mediate and practicing breathing techniques it will contribute to optimal mental health and enhancing coping strategies to deal with everyday life.
Some may argue that separation of church and state prevents places like Reflection rooms from being on campus, but these rooms transcend religion and provide an area for both the religious and non-religious.
Other university campuses’ around the United States have already adopted to their students’ needs such as California State University Northridge who have provided a space for the growing number of students, both religious and non-religious, 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,’ religious or not, the Reflection Room responds to the needs of students and symbolizes that these needs are important.
Pierce College views diversity as strength, should they get a Reflection Room they can meet the needs of their diverse students.
By using an unused room, perhaps one in the library courtyard, 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.