Written and Reposted with permission by Guest Blogger: Jess Stohlmann Rainey
“In every community, there is
work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart,
there is the power to do it.” – Marianne Williamson
Today the staff at the Carson J
Spencer Foundation grieves with the faculty, staff, families, and students
affected by the tragic events at Arapahoe High School. With the rest of the
country, our hearts and minds are turned toward Littleton. Tragedy can make
communities and schools feel fractured, as if something has broken and can’t
quite be made whole again. By pulling together, offering hope, and focusing on
healing, we can begin to collectively mend the injuries tragic events like this
cause.
When hope is hard to find, we rely
on the strength of the community to hold onto hope for us. As compassionate
citizens, we can lend strength to people when they falter, be a shoulder for
tears, and look forward to see a light in the darkness. Hope and comfort are most
important when they are most elusive. As we begin to heal, lean on each other.
Open your arms and your hearts. If you are concerned for someone or concerned
for yourself, seek help.
As we cope with this act of
violence, there are a few things we can do right now to help us heal (adapted
from the Suicide Prevention Lifeline):
- Talk about the tragedy. Even if you weren’t directly
affected, you may feel anxiety, fear, anger, or deep sadness. If you don’t
have someone to confide in, you can call 1-800-273-TALK(8255) any time.
- Don’t watch (too much) news. Being immersed in the
media’s portrayal of the most difficult parts of this tragedy can be overwhelming.
- Take care of yourself. Using positive coping methods
will help your body and your mind deal with stress.
- Help Others. Promote lifesaving services like the
Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and the Disaster Distress
Hotline (1-800-985-5990). Participate in vigils or volunteer in your
community.
“Hope” is the thing with feathers -
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops – at all -
-Emily Dickenson
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