Refection and Connection

The work week begins and prayers intensify. For the children, families, and entire community near Sandy Hook Elementary school -- the pain and remnants of their once safe neighborhood shadow their Christmas preparations and memory making. Tragedy affects more than the victim and his or her family. In this case, multiple victims and crime scenes create multiple connections and cause for grief.

The loss of one child, in an individual setting, is hard to comprehend, so the thought of multiple horrific acts of violence is mind boggling.  My heart continues to break for the loss of my only sister. It has been over eighteen years since her kidnapping yet Heidi and her tragic abduction aren't events of the past.

Our family and community continue to remember Heidi throughout the year. The holidays remind those affected to reflect and appreciate the friends, family, and neighbors God has blessed them with. A sweet woman on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page shared thoughts of encouragement, love, and compassion.

"I am sure that you do realize, that like these children from Connecticut were everybody's children and their loss has affected the nation, Heidi was the communities child and we have and will forever feel her loss and remember her!"

Thank you Debbie. Your words blessed me more than you might know. My heart still breaks as I think of the precious innocence lost this past week. As I crossed the threshold for school this morning, it was a somber place. We, your children's teachers, strive to not only educate your children but to keep them safe while they are with us. This morning, our students (and I am sure all the children across the country) were greeted with extra hugs and praises.

Continue to pray for all affected by the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary. Cherish the moments you have with your loved ones. Choose to make a difference and help to keep our children safe. Do all these things in love and hope for tomorrow.

Don't let fear captivate your heart and mission in life. God didn't take those innocent lives, a man did. God gave us free-will and choice ~ choose to bless, inspire, uplift, motivate, encourage, and be there for those in need when they ask the tough questions.

This isn't an easy task, trust me. I spent a decade focused on the loss, discounting God and blaming Him. It wasn't until one child said, "Mrs. Buske, you need Jesus!" that I truly realized how lost and hurt I as. You may not be able to see the good or live without fear today but please continue to pray and talk with God. Give it to Him, His shoulders are big enough to carry our burdens while embracing the twenty-plus angels that joined Him on Friday.

"When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I
trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?"
Psalm 56:3-4

Note: The Christmas video scheduled to be shared on tomorrow's TOP's Tuesday blog will be posted on Friday, 12/21/12 out of respect for those grieving in CT.