CO-XST: STORIES

There’s a voice of longing inside every one of us daring, wishing and wanting to speak.

Each of our individual voices wish to serve as an ambassador of change, whether it is speaking out on delicate topics or simply trying to figure out why we are feeling underwhelmed. At times, we need inspiration to find that message of hope within our noise of confusion.

The CO-XST: Stories platform was created to showcase a broader social message of acceptance and hope to depict often-invisible experiences and start imploring everyone to think more deeply about who they are and how we can coexist in a space where our stories become a catalyst for celebrating each other.

Each blog post represents thought-provoking emotions which allow us to see each other as we are – human beings seeking kindness + compassion for our community, our countries and our world.

Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

UNWANTED

How do you feel wanted? How do you feel not alone in a house full of people? I’m so overwhelmed between school, work and taking kids to practices, but I still feel alone.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

ELECTION NIGHT

It makes no sense that this election has caused this much stress, fear, and anxiety among young people. I am honestly nervous for this turn … I am hoping for nothing but the best.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

DEAR MR. PRESIDENT

I am a suburban black woman.  I have a wonderful husband and two boys, ages 8 and 10.  I returned to school to show my sons no matter what age you are, you can be what you want to be.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

THIS YEAR HAS BEEN…

This year, as said by so many media reports, political and popular figures, friends, and family has been “unprecedented.” No one knows which way is up, and which way is down.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

I FINALLY HAVE HOPE

I’m in my junior year and I am really taking my classes seriously, but this bat-shit craziness in this world has almost derailed my future hopes.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

OFF BALANCE

Balancing this pandemic, work, election season, and racial tensions while also being in school is mentally draining.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

REFLECTING

TW: disordered eating.  It just started happening during quarantine, I was home all the time and gained weight.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

HIDDEN

I’ve been contemplating about this for a while now, and I think it’s time for me to come out.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

I’M OK

I feel like if someone were to ask me simply and genuinely, “how are you doing?” I would breakdown.

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Students Kiya Naka Students Kiya Naka

2020 SUCKS

I recently moved out in August for the first time. This has been hard being on my own and dealing with everything by myself and being alone most of the day.

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