I thought I was "doing okay" until last night.
We each respond to the unthinkable differently.
In our own way.
In our own timing.
- I think back to when my own children were little.
- I think of all my years in the classroom.
- I think of my own son who turned 20 years old on Thursday.
And, as a Choleric, I wonder what I can possibly do that will make any difference.
This courageous statement by the father of Emilie Parker gives me an idea:
(Can't view video? Click here to see Robbie Parker, Father of Emily Parker via YouTube.)
If Robbie Parker can say "Thank you" at a time like this, I can honor little Emilie (who sounds so much like my own artistic daughter when she was her age!) and take the time to say "Thank you."
I can write 2 notes today and 2 tomorrow and 2 the next day until I've written 26 notes to people I've been meaning to appreciate and encourage.
This is something I can do...
- ...as a tribute to those who no longer can.
- ...as a refusal to surrender to "nothing I do matters" thinking.
- ...as a tangible way to connect with those I love.
And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.
For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.
And always be thankful.
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives.
Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives.
Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.
And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks through him to God the Father.
Colossians 3:15-17
Your Turn
- How are you doing today?
- What is something -- however seemingly small -- you've decided to do in response to Friday's tragedy?
- Anything else on your heart!
