Reflections on Taft Union

While my prayers join with others for the students and community of Taft Union following the shooting, I do want to share an observation with my readers.

The shooter was bullied.

The shooter mentioned he would like to take steps to end his torment, but no one listened.

No one stopped the bullies.

The news media covered, covers, and will continue to cover violence done by people, which can seem to a desperate mind the one resort left to stop the torment of their lives.

While I certainly do not condone what transpired today, as no one should be on either end of that scenario, I would like to share my thoughts.

The focus of many, including the US President, will be on gun control... not bully control.

I was an outcast in school, and still have the scars today to prove it, inside and out.

While steps should be taken to ensure the safety of our citizens, especially our children, perhaps we should view a root cause, which is how we as a society respond to bullies.

May we see a time where no one needs to fear.

...or take such sad desperate measures. :*(

~ESA

News link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/10/taft-union-high-school-shooting-teacher_n_2450578.html 

Gethsemane, Connecticut

Like many fellow "Nutmeggers," my husband and I attended one of countless vigils held last night in Connecticut, praying for the small town of Newtown.

During the prayer vigil, there were many shared prayers, and a few hymns sung -- one of which touched me deeply.The words were simple and repeated somberly. "Stay with me. Pray with me. Be with me tonight."

I couldn't help but think of Christ's words to His disciples at Gethsemane. It was a night of wordless fear and anguish. And it was a night when He placed His complete Trust in God's hands, knowing God will see Him through the fear, the grief, and the pain...

Last night, Newtown residents and many others were still reeling from the shock of what happened. There is still the seventh Hanukkah Menorah candle a young child did not light at sunset last night. There is still the gifts waiting hidden for a child that will not be there Christmas morning to unwrap. There is the Holiday Season that will now be shared without a brother, sister, child or parent.

This morning there is a silence in a house so profound that no words can describe it.

Today, the grief will set it's teeth in fully, and those directly affected will need our prayers all the more.

Last night was Gethsemane for the residents of Newton. Will we answer their unspoken request, especially during this day and those that follow?

Stay with me.

Pray with me.

Be with me....

~ESA