On Aug. 31 a friend of mine died, apparently by his own hand.

David Cox was not a very close friend. Many knew him, but few seemed to know him very well. As far as anyone could tell, he did not have close friends. Nonetheless, he was a valued and respected member of the political science department.

Well-liked, dependable and extremely helpful, David would pitch in wherever and whenever there was a need. Although a professor, he would not hesitate to pitch in and do grunt work – answering phones, sorting mail, running errands. He was a very visible presence in the department.

David was smart. We shared an interest in Russia, and I learned much from him. No matter what the question, David always had a thoughtful answer. Because of his extensive knowledge of that part of the world, I found him a valuable resource for my school work.

David carried an air of sadness around him, though he also knew how to laugh. My office-mate and I had a lot fun working in this friendly department. We especially enjoyed playing pranks on selected members of the faculty. David loved to participate, giggling at some of our more bizarre schemes.

I am sorry, so sorry that David felt he had no choices left but this most extreme option. Perhaps if David had let anyone in, his internal pain may have lessened. If there is a lesson in this tragedy, it is to not suffer in silence. Allow a trusted friend, relative, pastor or whomever to help. It is a part of what makes the world go around.

-Fatimah Allengraduate student