Let the Light Shine

image via www.sxc.hu

As many Americans have been doing, I have been trying to process everything that has happened recently. I think that we will all continue to do so for some time. There has been a lot of discussion over the past couple of days and the one thing that has stuck with me has been the quote from Mr. Rogers:

“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.” 

It is important to remember that there is still goodness in the world. For me, children have always represented the light and it is crucial that that light not be lost. There will be a lot of discussions in weeks to come--discussions that we should have and need to have. However, I do encourage everyone to do what they can to feed that light, for those that have been lost. Whether it be donating to the causes helping Newtown, adopting a family for the holidays, donating to Toys for Tots, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or donating to help those who lost so much to Sandy, find a way to reach out to children in need and help fuel their light in honor of those who have been lost. 

CNN has published a list of funds that have been set up to help families affected by the tragedy as well as organizations that are assisting them. I have also read about an effort to shower Newtown with paper hearts to show the town how much we care. This could be something you could share with your child, if your child is aware of the events. Those wanting to participate can cut out paper hearts, decorate them, and write positive messages on them. 

 Here is some more information about the Hearts of Hope for Newtown Initiative:

In light of the recent tragedy in Newtown we are hoping to come together as a community in the thought that “those children are our children” and show the people of Newtown that we are in this together. So many of us watched the news with broken hearts and a feeling of helplesness. Here is the opportunity for all of us to show our love for Newtown, to let them know they are not alone. To let them know as they piece their lives back together that we are there to shed tears with them, prayer with them, and help in anyway we can.

Here is what you can do: Cut out a paper heart, decorate it, and write a message of love (positive messages only please). Address them to Hearts of Hope and send one or many and mail them to:

Newtown Congregational Church
14 West St, Newtown, CT 06470

or


First Church Congregational
148 Beach Rd, Ffld CT 06824

We are going to take these hearts and cover Newtown with our love from around the world. We are going to take these hearts and hang them up in local businesses, churches, and banks so that no matter where the people of Newtown go they will be surrounded by love and reminded that from hate rises love and support. That humanity is still very much alive and if we band together with love and hope in our hearts we can accomplish so much more. It really does take a village...

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We have the power to make this world better for our children. We each can do something to let their lights' shine. There is a lot for us as adults to work out in regards to this tragedy. However, one thing that we can do immediately is touch a child's life.

~~~~Bless those angels.~~~