4.16.2013...

there are so many things beyond my comprehension.  the senseless actions of others meant to do nothing but cause harm, fear and pain to complete strangers...innocent people caught off-guard...a tiny soul the same age as m taken by the hands of someone with malicious intent and a heart full of hate.  yes, these are my assumptions...harsh opinions from a mom who has a hard time finding the words to explain the magnitude of events that continue to unfold in seemingly innocent situations to a daughter who thankfully hasn't grasped the full extent of fear intended by the monsters hiding behind the term "terrorist".  i seek to find the right explanations, grapple with understanding these horrific events enough myself in order to answer the many questions that come from her.  i read these words from the infamous mr. rogers several times on facebook last night:

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” ― Fred Rogers 

i've read them many times in the past, but this time i think i REALLY read them for the first time...really heard the meaning, the depth behind them.  ..."look for the helpers" - even when things are scary, even when things are hard...there are ALWAYS people who are helping.  that simple fact brings me peace.  and...the desire to be one of those people...a helper.

seek first goodness and mercy...reach out to those who have needs greater than yours...look for beauty no matter the circumstances...and love without boundaries or reservation...