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A spirit that is not afraid

OPINION: One is not the loneliest number

(Why a pink logo? The Auburn Plainsman is going pink for the month of October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.)
(Why a pink logo? The Auburn Plainsman is going pink for the month of October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.)

You won't learn your most important rhyme in nursery school.
Ring before spring is the gold standard for many college men and women. There is a massive push to be married by the time the college years are over. People seem to be getting engaged left and right.
Slow down, everyone.
Take some time to enjoy being single. It is a great time to reflect and figure out the best course for your life, academically, socially and any other path you want to take.
Don't get me wrong, I am not against relationships. I have been in long-term relationships in college and they were great. I grew as a person and learned how to treat others. I met lots of interesting people and made friendships I still cherish. Those relationships were great, but it's time for a new season of life, one I am still learning how to embrace.
Being single is scary. Some people feel totally alone, and no one will come to your aid. That could not be further from the truth.
Finding a community that will provide unconditional support can be a daunting task, but is the most rewarding thing you can do. Go out to the next O-Days and grab some fliers. You could be meeting the people who push your truck across the road.
I am very new at being single. It has been eye-opening. I have invested in my future, through activities and cementing lasting friendships. I have bonded with some amazing people over the last couple months. I became involved in groups I might not have tried out otherwise.
True love is a beautiful thing. I see it every day all over campus, but I also see people who are forcing relationships.
Do not date someone to avoid being alone. It hurts everyone involved, even those you don't know about. Face your fears, whether they are being alone or of the unknown. If nothing else, you have more time to invest in a new hobby or series on Netflix.
Relationships are a wonderful thing. But sometimes they don't last forever. If you find yourself single, embrace it and love yourself. A piece of wisdom I heard somewhere said you should be comfortable as a single person before you go out to find your husband or wife.
In the midst of proposals, sparkly rings and candlelight ceremonies it can be hard to not give up and become a hermit. But it's OK if you don't find Mr. or Mrs. Right before graduation. You're not doing anything wrong, I'm sure it's not because you stepped on the seal by Langdon Hall. Get involved, make new friends and enjoy being single.
Maria McIlwain is the assistant copy editor at The Plainsman. She can be reached at copy@theplainsman.com


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