Current Issue: (2024)
Turbulence

Dear Readers,

Turbulence is an essential part of the natural world. Opposing currents churn the deep waters of the ocean, strong winds clear the air of pollutants, and powerful storms drench the earth with life-sustaining water. Yet, when we humans find ourselves experiencing turbulence, our gut reaction is often to bear down and anchor ourselves. Perhaps you, like us, have found yourself closing your eyes and tightly grasping the armrests of your airplane seat as the wings rock, or trying to keep your eyes on the horizon to prevent seasickness from taking hold in choppy waters. Anchoring ourselves allows us to maintain some level of control and survive the turbulence around us, but it is not the only way forward. We may often feel completely at the mercy of the turbulent forces around us, like a small canoe bobbing amidst ocean swells. Yet, rather than throwing down the anchor or paddling vigorously against the current, why not put up a sail?

This issue explores what turbulence means to us and how we decide to handle it. It intentionally comes at a fitting time, as the world grapples with the turmoil of war, polarizing elections and ongoing climate disasters. Some can block out the noise around them and find inner peace, whereas others channel external chaos into internal motivation. With the right mindset, there is always something to glean from turbulent times. In truth, without any turbulence to overcome and learn from, life would be stale. As FDR once famously said, “a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” So, next time your life seems to be crashing down all around you, try keeping your anchor out of the water, and see where the waves take you!

- Quill & Scope Editorial Board