Our generation is commonly accused of being apathetic, lazy and self-involved. Tulane students are no exception; we are certainly familiar with these claims of indifference. It is sad to say, but I am seldom inspired by the actions of college students. This is because there are no inspiring actions to follow. Perhaps it is because it seems impossible to make a difference or just that no one cares. The common perception that there is only so much a few kids can do is frequently referenced.
That may true at Tulane these days, but it is not the case for four college students attending Baylor University in Texas. They have started the Alive Campaign for Suicide Prevention, and I am amazed at what they have managed to accomplish in less than a month.
Here is a little background information for those of you who have not heard about this. I was sent a Facebook group invitation called "Four Guys, One Destination, One Mission: Suicide Prevention" and decided to check it out. These guys were doing their best to prove to a suicidal friend that life was worth living. They came up with a crazy idea of taking a bike trip from Texas to Alaska as a way of living life to the fullest and not getting trapped in what seems to some to be the suffocating lifestyle of society.
The idea soon became a reality; the guys pledged to embark on the journey after reaching the Facebook group member goal of 250,000. The group opened on Nov. 4 and nearly doubled in size daily until the goal was reached just 13 days later.
The four friends have drawn in their whole school and town all the way from students to administration and even the government. Numerous cities have opened their arms to host the travelers on their journey, which is set to take place this upcoming summer.
The spark they have started continues to reach people. The group continues to grow, and I encourage all of you to join and play a roll in this tremendous journey. The amount of people that have been touched by the work of these students is never-ending.
I hope these guys know that I wish them the best, and I hope that our community can find a way to be involved as well. Facebook might be the key - join the group, buy a T-shirt and spread the word. Our generation can and will make a difference; it just takes a little time to find the right way.
Jennifer Feld is an associate views editor and a sophomore in the College of Science and Engineering. She may be reached for comment at jfeld@tulane.edu.
2008 Woodie Awards
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