We don’t usually address current events on our website, but after watching the news unfold today I felt compelled to write something. As mothers, I know we all sat down and cried as we thought of those who lost a child in this horrible elementary school shooting. God Bless the students, staff and families affected by this tragedy. They will all be in our thoughts and prayers.
It is easy in times like these to “give up” on humanity. It is easy to talk about being scared for our future and terrified of the world in which we live. It’s easy to say “look what our world is coming to” and feel dread. It is easy to be pessimistic, because unfortunately bad things do happen every day all around us. But don’t forget that good things happen, too. One of our team members shared this quote today from Fred Rogers (Mister Rogers) and it gave me comfort:
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of “disaster,” I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world.”
How true. In that school today there was one man, one sick man, who did something horrific and terrible. But the rest of that school was filled with “helpers” and innocent children. It was filled with people who will now turn to one another for comfort and turn to their faith for answers.
It was amazing to see Facebook posts today. The morning began with people who were flustered due to the fact that they had too much holiday shopping left to do, or people who were discussing plans for the weekend. Then as the news broke, posts quickly turned to compassion, love and warmth. This horrific event made us remember what is truly important. Everyone wanted to hug their children, call their friends and reach out a helping hand.
In tragic times like these, we honor those who were lost, pray for the families who are in shock and unbelievable pain, and stick together as “helpers.” We need to have faith in knowing that there is still good in this world.
Love, thoughts and prayers to all affected by today’s shootings.
Resources to Help Parents & Their Children in These Situations:
How Not to Talk with Children about the Sandy Hook Shooting
Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting
Talking to Children About Disasters
Talking to Your Children About Violence
Talking to Children About the School Shooting
Experts Provide Tips
How to Talk to Your Kids about the Connecticut Shootings
