One of the worst things about coming to school is having to put on a mask. Not the actual mask that you have to wear because of the dumb thing called COVID, which we are all sick of, but the mask to cover how hurt or not okay you are. It is a struggle and no one, absolutely no one should have to ever do that. 

     Positivity is one of the most important things. It is a key to having a happy life, let alone being surrounded by positivity really does help your social life and your educational life.  

     According to Mayo Clinic, positive thinking helps with stress management and can even improve your health. Indeed, some studies show that personality traits such as optimism and pessimism can affect many areas of your health and well-being. The positive thinking that usually comes with optimism is a key part of effective stress management. And effective stress management is associated with many health benefits. 

     The past few weeks, students, specifically girls or anyone that is allowed in the girl’s bathroom, have been leaving very loving, reassuring, kind notes on the mirrors in the women’s bathroom. If you are one of those people writing those notes, just know that you are so appreciated by many people, and you have made many people’s days by just one simple note. 

     One note said, “hi lovely! If you’re reading this, please read until the end! I know life is hard sometimes, maybe even a lot of the time. It’s okay to struggle. I want you to know that you aren’t alone in whatever you’re going through, even something you think is small or not a big deal. There are people who love and care about you and your presence. It might not feel like that for you, but I promise that there is. We all need to be listened to and cared about. You may be experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, maybe even anger or fear. I want you to know that I am proud of you for getting through it and staying here. I’m proud of you for everything you have accomplished. You are worthy, loved, important. Take care of yourself <3 I love you:) -Stranger” 

     North Harford needs more people like this. There needs to be more positivity spread throughout our school. There are people going through things that no one even knows about and notes like these, or even just little acts of kindness can help someone in so many unbelievable ways. 

     So please, leave little notes like that for people, anonymously or not. You can slip it into a random locker, or tape it on a desk, or tape it on a mirror or anywhere. You can make a significant impact on someone, and you can save someone from their thoughts. That is such a beautiful thing to be a part of, and our school needs more of it.