A Day for Grieving
When tragedy strikes in the infinite number of ways it does, we can lose our bearings. It is a natural response. There is no need to try to make sense of that initial rush of cortisol surging through our bodies, even as our brains are wildly analyzing and wanting to find a satisfactory explanation.
Today, my heart goes out to all the people in the small town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. The news of this devastating shooting in a High School leaves us with no solid ground. It is unbelievable. And so sadly true.
The small town of Tumbler Ridge is horror-struck and in collective mourning. Certainly, I have no words. And as I have learned, words are rarely required. It is the listening and attentive ear that is needed. Our full attention. Our presence.
“A family,” the mayor said. “Our town is a large family. We will take care of each other.”
This was the second-worst shooting in Canada’s history, and tomorrow has been declared an official day of mourning in British Columbia.
A time like this that arrives unannounced with such heartbreaking devastation takes time to settle. Tonight, I will simply sit quietly with the pain and suffering of the community of Tumbler Ridge.
We have what we need to weather all storms, although that may initially seem an impossibility. What we need is the company of others. Hold out your hand when you need a friend. Noone can do this life alone.
Notes
1)Thank you for coming by. There is much suffering in our world right now. Take heart and ask for help whenever you need it. Sincerely, Trudy
Mary Oliver excerpt from the poem Blackwater Woods
“To live in this world
you must be able
to do three things:
to love what is mortal;
to hold it
against your bones, knowing
your own life depends on it;
and, when the time comes to let it go,
to let it go.”
Thank you – I too sit quietly with a loving embrace for all that have been impacted.
Thank you dear Isaiaha. These things count. With gratitude, Trudy
I am so sorry. I found some comfort from the words and actions of the Buddhist monks whose
practice of mindfulness allowed them to walk from
Houston, TX, to Washington DC.
Nothing can comfort the terrible loss in that little town, I know. I pray for a measure of peace–peace for us all.
The walk of the Buddhist Monks is so inspiring Carol. I fully agree. Thank you for your kindness, Trudy
Thank you, Trudy – I will spend some time to do Tonglen for the village Tumbler Ridge…
With love to all who suffer, who are happy, for all living creatures, for the world
Sabine
Thank you dear Sabine. Tonglen is such a gracious practice. With gratitude, Trudy
I wept when I heard this news, and I carry the heaviness of this in my stomach today. Sending quiet love to the community, and to you.
Thank you Margaret. Even at the worst of times, grace is there. Always, Trudy
Thank you Trudy. I too have no words so I offer my listening heart to all those who are grieving this terrible event. May all beings be at peace.
Thank you Janice. I appreciate your thoughtful note. We keep each other company. Always, Trudy
Just sadness. Thanks for your words Trudy. Reminding us of our human response, and the importance of listening, an attentive ear and the presence of others.
I appreciate your thoughtful note Kevin. Thank you. Best regards, Trudy