After hearing about the most recent tragedy at an elementary school in Newton, Conn. it brought me to my knees. Precious lives were lost today and I cannot imagine what the parents, family, friends, classmates, teachers, and community must feel. This brought me back to reality, the fact that we do live in a sinful world and holding our loved ones closer tonight. I am thanking the Lord for watching over and protecting us in our comings and goings. Here are a few thoughts:
The children: "Jesus loves the little children!" The adorable kiddies will never say I love you to their parents, they will never graduate from high school, and never have the opportunity to celebrate this Christmas season. Innocent children that never hurt another person intentionally. How many of those children are an only child? Losing your one and only is so tragic. How many of those children were born at a great cost? I personally know many friends that endured hardships to finally conceive and then give birth to their adorable baby. These parents are in anguish as well. Classmates are mourning the loss of their friends in their own way. Many
will need psychology help to process the tragedy. Siblings will be
without their brother or sister. I can picture those sweet faces looking at their teachers eager to learn! They were going to celebrate their last day of school before the holiday break. As they went to school this morning they anticipated their holiday party and being off for a couple of weeks. Their gifts will be under the tree this Christmas as the parents mourn the loss. Christmas morning will never be the same.....
The parents: Receiving an emergency phone call at work stating that there was a shooting at your children's school. Parents rushed- ran to the school, cried on the way, drove frantically to get there as soon as they could. I could not put myself in their shoes and relay everything they must have thought or did. Tonight parents hold your gifts from the Lord extra tight, that adorable little boy or girl. Thank the Lord for his blessings and his unfailing love. Share with your older children the events that occurred today in a modified version and age appropriate and omitting specific details. The media will detail everything and placing your children in front of the television to learn what happened is not the best way. Something to this effect- Son or daughter: We live in a world where tragic situations happen, children and adults lost their lives today. Not sure as to why this occurred but we do know that we love you so much and there are people that protect us and keep us safe. We do not know why things like this happen but there is no need to worry. We love you and will do everything to provide safety.
Children are bound to hear more graphic details from friends or classmates. The best advice is to tell them in advance that there may come across these conversations and to walk away and not listen. Unfortunately children can pick up bits and pieces of information and pass them onto others as truth. Teach your children that you as their parents will provide them truth and they can always come to you.
I cried today and I am sure I will continue to cry in the upcoming weeks. Pray! PRAY!!! I cannot stress the word pray. Our country and world is not getting better. Sin is growing and it is up to us to stand up in our faith and seek God's word. Be a light in this dark world! My prayers go out to all of the families, children, teachers, school workers, and community. I wish I could be there to hug each one of them and tell them that God loves them and only HE can get them through this. Let us all join in and wish everyone our deepest sympathy and love.
Pray for America!!!
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