I woke to the news of another mass shooting. My heart, numb from the frequent occurrence of this kind of news, skipped a beat. With increasing details, San Bernardino, social work, and a Redlands house being searched, my heart went to family and friends. Who was there? Who was hurt or worse? I knew even as I searched for answers that the simple answer is all. We are all hurt because of the events.
When you have roots in the area, you know that everything changed with the experience. Cities, communities, and neighborhoods are no longer what they once were. Emergency drills and events blur into each other, each reminding one of the uncertainty, anguish, and lingering pain from the events that are still unfolding. Innocence is yet again taken away from us.
I am relieved and saddened at the same time. I was fortunate that those closest to my heart are safe on this day. I am saddened that they have felt evil’s touch. From the past, I know the feeling first hand. It is someone no individual of any age should ever experience, but it is a reality of the world in which you and I live.
I find myself returning to the anchor points of my life. These include a thanksgiving for the relationships of love that I have. With every fiber of my being I am thankful, connected, and committed to their well being and walk. Each individually and collectively gives meaning to my heart and soul.
I am also drawn to the sustaining belief in love, compassion, and hope. As others before me facing similar situations have cried out, I echo their voices; “Long before the mountains were born, long before you brought earth itself to birth, from ‘once upon a time’ to ‘kingdom come’ – you are God.” (Psalm 90.2) Paraphrasing a song writer’s words, “yet I will praise.”
I long for a time and place with no pain, fear, or evil. Until then, I will do all in my power to make it real for those around me.
