A note to students from and with loved ones in France

The following note was sent to Boston University students from France on Saturday, November 14th. This message also provides information useful to all of the BU community.

Please know that you are in my thoughts. I hope you are okay. Tragically, I feel that we loss our humanity yesterday – I, too, share in this profound sadness. I am sorry that you, and France, is faced with yet another set of attacks and bombings.

We know that for you this may also be traumatic. I sincerely hope that amidst the stress you are able to continue to move forward. I understand if you or any of your friends and colleagues need any assistance coping with his loss and the ongoing discussion. Please know that my staff and I are present and available to help — you need not face your anxieties and sadness regarding this tragedy alone. A member of the University staff will be in contact with you at some point this weekend.

If you need it, counseling is available from Marsh Chapel chaplains and at Student Health Services. Chaplains can be reached at 617-353-3560. Additional counselors, through Student Health Services affiliated offices, can be reached at 617-353-7277 or at 617-353-3569.

Each day, I try to take a moment to meditate. I offer you Howard Thurman’s “For A Time of Sorrow,” that I carry with me today, for any of your additional reflection:

I share with you the agony of your grief.
The anguish of your heart finds echo in my own.
I know I cannot enter all you feel
Nor bear with you the burden of your pain;

I can but offer what my love does give:
The strength of caring,
The warmth of one who seeks to understand
The silent storm-swept barrenness of so great a loss.

This I do in quiet ways,
That on your lonely path
You many not walk alone.

We will post updates at BU Today.

Much strength to you as you go forward.

Stay well,

Kenneth Elmore
Dean of Students