This time a year ago, the world was asking themselves: how many times a day do we think about the Roman Empire? A week? A month? At first, the trend was a joke, questioning men on the amount they recall the Roman Empire. But it got deeper, as things always do in the female gaze.
The Roman Empire was significant for so many reasons. The evolving legal systems, modern architecture and the historical legacy it upholds. Who wouldn’t think about the Roman Empire every day? It is the reason the world is the way it is today.
Now, think about an event or time that changed you. Changed who you are today. A personal Roman Empire, if you will. Everyone has them. When they occur in college, it can be difficult to navigate. Breakups, a bad grade, the ending of a friendship or even a rough night out are all examples of the classic college Roman Empire.
You think about it constantly and not to be dramatic but, it alters your brain chemistry. Trust me, I get it. But it doesn’t have to be your Roman Empire if you don’t let it.
Look, A Butterfly
Distract yourself. This is easy to do in college. There are so many things to do here in Happy Valley. Take advantage of that. Go on a walk with your friends, hike Mount Nittany to reconnect with nature, see a movie at The State Theatre or even just be with your friends. Distractions help.
It’s Ok To Stay In
A lot of times, the classic college Roman Empire can have a lot to do with a few cold ones. No harm in that. But you know your limits and you know when it’s time to put the bottle down. It’s ok to say no to a Thursday night out. You will live. Put yourself first.
You’re Not Alone
You’re not the only one going through this, trust me. The person you just passed on the street is thinking about their Roman Empire just like you are. Check-in on yourself and those around you. Find comfort in the fact that you’re not alone.
This Too Shall Pass
Sometimes your life will be boring, you won’t have a Roman Empire to obsess over. Enjoy that time. Soak it all in because who knows, your next night out could be the rise of your next Roman Empire.
How do you navigate your roman empires? Let us know on Instagram @VALLEYmag!
