We’re All on a Floating Rock… Right?
March 29, 2024
Writer: Libby Zufi
Editor: Alena Miklosovic
Humans are truly small creatures. There are over 200 billion galaxies in the universe, and within the 51 clusters of our galaxy lies the Milky Way, containing over 5,502 planets alone. Our existence is smaller than a grain of sand. Why not take that leap of faith and ask someone out? Why worry about failing a test or two when our existence is but a tiny blip in the vast cosmos?
Lately, I've found myself withdrawing from social plans, opting instead to cocoon myself in my room while my friends go out and create memories. Perhaps it's laziness or maybe I've been overlooking the opportunities right in front of me. As I isolate myself, I can't help but question: when does attributing our actions to forces beyond our control become unrealistic and impractical? This mindset feels like a cop-out, especially when life throws challenging decisions my way.
Instead of succumbing to this defeatist attitude, I remind myself of the mantra "YOLO" (you only live once). As cheesy as it sounds, it serves as a guiding principle, pushing me to embrace the extraordinary and seize the moment. Our existence may be fleeting, but it's brimming with potential for remarkable achievements. Our curiosity, lust for knowledge, and ability to create new technology is a feat that we have the privilege of experiencing.
Ironically, it was an astrology class that led me to reassess my mindset. Though academically rigorous, I eventually decided to switch courses, which initially caused me to be disappointed in myself. However, I am a strong believer that everything happens for a reason. This setback led me to discover a newfound passion and form more connections with my peers.
In 2019, I had an epiphany while stargazing in the Masada Desert with my family. Our tour guide asked us to lie down close our eyes and then look up at the stars. There were thousands of stars twinkling back at me, and my world went silent. Left alone with my thoughts, I was given the chance to sit and think. Was I my best self around others, did I exuberate kindness, am I making the most of my time on Earth?
Reflecting on my aspirations, I've come to realize that setbacks, like dropping a class, may sting, but they're not the end of the world. We're all just inhabitants of a floating rock hurtling through space, so it's important not to take ourselves too seriously. Embracing failure and learning from mistakes are key for personal growth and resilience and those experiences are what make us stronger. At the end of the day, try to enjoy each moment because we're all on a floating rock anyway.
