I can’t watch the tv coverage of the tragedy in Newton, Connecticut. Being a former teacher, a parent and grandparent, it’s just too difficult. I feel like the icy hand of fear has reached in to grip my heart.
I keep thinking of winter. Winter is a shared experience, especially when there is a heavy snow. This feels like we got about 3 feet of snow dumped on us. It’s a challenge to do anything, but you put one foot in front of the other even if the snow comes up to your knees. You do all the things you need to get done, prioritizing the most important first. This seems very much the same to me.
We will go on. The families directly involved will never be the same. There are no words to comfort them. Please shelter your children from 24/7 coverage of the tragedy. It’s not good for them to internalize all this fear. Don’t keep the tv coverage on at your house. Answer their questions, but don’t dwell on it. This is a rare incident, though shocking. Give them extra hugs and spend extra time with them. You can be the shock absorber for them.
Click here for ways to heal somewhat from this tragedy.
Maggie says
Roberta, I’m sure teachers all over have felt this very deeply. I think most teachers would give their lives to protect the precious children in their care. The age of the children makes it doubly hard.
Roberta says
Very thoughtful post, Maggie and sound advice. As a former first grade teacher the age of these students hit me very hard. The selfless teachers who gave their lives to protect their children is beyond words.
Maggie says
Anne, those are the sentiments of my heart. It hits right where our most precious hopes reside.
Anne K Albert says
Although I’m a writer, these tragedies are too difficult to put into words.
The grief, disbelief and dismay for so many lost lives is overwhelming, and like you I cannot watch the TV coverage. And sadly, like so many others I can’t stop thinking about it.