Virginia Tech

The devastating news from Virginia Tech finds my heart heavy with sadness and grief for the families, friends, and loved ones who were taken from this life by senseless acts of murder.
As one who has experienced loss and tragedy in my life, words are not adequate and attempted explanations are of no comfort.
In life, we may not be able to avoid tragedy and sadness, even when we are making positive choices and living a good life. Sometimes the decisions made by others bring pain and suffering we could not see heading our way and could not have avoided at any turn.
The one thing I know for sure is that pain, grief, loss, suffering, sorrow all bring emotions of hopelessness, bitterness, anger, and loneliness. The only way I have moved beyond those feelings is my focus on faith in God and his son, Jesus Christ. Aligning myself at times of great joy and at times of low grief give hope for healing and strength. The hope becomes a reality. Attempting to heal alone without the support of Jesus Christ is a recipe for despair. We may have trials, but never have to face them alone even when we feel more lonely than ever.
On this day, I pray for the friends. families, and loved ones of those who were killed at Virginia Tech. May they have support, peace, and healing as the days and months roll on. May they gain strength from the thousands of thoughts and prayers on their behalf. May they know that they do not have to grieve alone.