“…let it not turn into something that defines us, but inspires us to be better, to be more compassionate, and more humble people.” – Robert Parker, father of six year old Emilie Parker
Inspire us.
As I sit here, cheeks drenched in tears, chest heaving in sobs, I feel anything but inspired. I am angry. And sad. And scared.
But I have to pack my girls up and send them to school today. I have to find the strength and the courage to send them out into the world where I can’t protect them. I can’t wrap my arms around them and hug them, knowing my day will be peaceful and secure. I have to let them go.
In letting them go, I hope they are the inspiration. I hope they will be kinder to other children today, more considerate of their teachers, and better in and of themselves. I hope they find gratitude where they may have found discontent; understanding where they used to find frustration; and friends in kids they may have previously not noticed.
I believe in my heart that we are sent here with a blueprint that outlines our purpose, and although the pain I feel that these tiny blueprints all built up to this sad and tragic event, no life on this earth, no matter how brief, is lived in vain. Bless these tiny souls for accomplishing so quickly what they were sent her to do. I know that the choir of angels singing to the Lord Himself on Christmas day will be so much sweeter with these little voices returned home.
I hope in this tragedy we all find the inspiration to be better people. Even though these feet were tiny, we have big shoes to fill if we ever want to make as big an impact on this world as these tiny lives have done. May God bless these families, wrap them in His comforting embrace, and give them peace in knowing that we will be forever touched by the beautiful faces of their children.
Be inspired. Love each other.