On the weekend of July 20, 2012, we were all shocked and horrified to learn of the mass shooting at a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado. Loss of loved ones is extremely difficult even when due to "natural causes." When young people die from violent and intentional homicide, the grief is unfathomable. Sudden, unexpected, and fraught with evil images, the mind and spirit go into overload.
There are no words that can adequately express the host of emotions such a terrible event triggers. Sorrow, confusion, despair, and anger hit intensity levels that become overwhelming and exhausting.
Our hearts go out to the loved ones of those lost and we encourage consolers to be present and listen. Never will the right words exist to bring comfort that can eliminate the suffering of this profound grief. Express your sympathy and care and offer your listening presence now and in the many months and years ahead.
Rays of Hope in Times of Loss: Courage and Comfort for Grieving Hearts, offers this poem,
"A Young Leader:"
None of us ever thought it would be you
Leading the way to the next life's view.
It seemed your life had just begun,
And was so far from being done.
We are the elders, so unprepared,
For youth gone first, a thought never dared.
We assumed we'd be the ones to lead,
An order in life and death to heed.
But these are things beyond our control;
You've lead the way, so we'll follow your soul.
Your life is now enfolded in ours,
And over us your spirit towers.
In deepest sympathy for the loss of precious loved ones,
Susan Zimmerman