2019 was a year. While in the grand scheme of human history it probably won’t register as particularly significant, it was a year where womxn and femmes, and basically anyone who isn’t a cishet white man, started to find words to speak their truth. We talked about deeply traumatic experiences. We shared pain. But we also shared resiliency. So in no particular order, these are the Life Editor’s top picks for 2019.
1. “I couldn’t speak about my assault for years, until now” by Izza Malik
We all know assault sucks, but to describe it and confront it in writing? That’s something special.
2. “We’re all the victims in a world of school shootings” by Meg Leach
In an America where shootings seem to happen every other day, a deep and personal narrative describing the effects of such happens is so important. Even if you haven’t been directly involved in a shooting, the PTSD hits us all in its own way.
3. “My neighborhood believes in walls and privacy, but I was surprised how much I enjoyed a week without a wall” by Erin De Kock
Walls are made for privacy but are they hurting human compassion and sympathy? During one week without a wall in the suburbs of Johannesburg, this author discovered an entirely new side to her neighborhood. But at the end of that week, the wall went back up and the camaraderie faded. Is privacy worth it?
4. “I wish people talked more about this depression symptom” by Anushka Singh
Brain fog is a real and horrific effect of depression that doesn’t nearly get enough attention. Brain fog refers to a cluster of symptoms that affect thinking, memory and recollection. Moreover, it affects more than just those with depression. Understanding each other is the first step to making this world a better and more accepting place.
5. “What I didn’t know about life after graduation” by Amanda DiBenedetto
Moving from the freeform setup of college into the abyss of the unknown is terrifying for everyone. We think the real world will offer the same freedom but, instead, we take any and all jobs that will pay the rent and offers health insurance.
6. “Here’s why I’m done helping you with your white guilt” by Neha Maqsood
It is not up to women of color to make you feel better about your inherent racism. The everyday turmoil of microaggressions and stress placed on the shoulders of POC is simply unfair and exhausting.
7. “I lost my faith in religion. Now I have to tell my Muslim parents” by Anonymous
I lost my faith in religion. Now I have to tell my Muslim parents
Something changed in this author’s faith over time. Slowly, she began to listen to music, dance and lose her passion for Islam. Is she still Muslim? Why couldn’t she connect?
Life is nuts but when we share our experiences the world gets a little closer and we understand each other a little better. Cheers to 2019!