Legacy of Love

I almost didn't write this message, because it is always easier and less painful to avoid such pain. Many of us skip the articles and stories that are so horrifying that they make us question humanity, or even the presence of God. I am a high school English teacher, and when I have taught Elie Wiesel's Holocaust memoir, Night,  one of the scenes describing the hanging of a young boy always brings tears to my eyes. The prisoners gaze upon the body in despair and question "Where is God now?" I have this same reaction when I contemplate the atrocity of your loss. As a parent of elementary-aged children, I am gripped by physical pain in my stomach when I read about what happened that day. My throat swells with restrained tears, yet my eyes still spill over. Your loss is unimaginable to me, yet I still feel it acutely. I pray for your peace and that you might take comfort knowing that your beautiful children and Newtown's lost, brave teachers will never be forgotten. As a teacher, their story has made me more brave. Your children have been in my hearts while I have discussed everything from self-esteem to how to be a good friend, and why we should all reach out to help someone in need. I am doing what I can to try to make sure something like this never happens again. Your children and teachers are truly heroes, and your loss will never go away, but I hope I can share in carrying your burden, if only a tiny bit. Love and peace to you.