Whether it is by design or not, women have always understood the instinct to put ourselves between evil and those we hold dear. We may not have the words to explain our reactions, but we do understand that it is a bond we have like no other.
As I went about my errands yesterday, I crossed paths with other women who were carrying a distraught and worried look on their face. We would glance at each other and somehow immediately know that we are all sharing the pain of this horrible wound. At times there were brief exchanges; " When will it stop?" , "How many more?", "I cannot breath when I think of them.".
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The comments of these women needed no explanation, we each in our own way know that the burden will fall on the mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunts, to do the heavy lifting in the days ahead.
So what is it that I can do from so far away? Should I protest and march for changes in our laws? Is praying and sending condolences of any help to those so deeply hurt? It is definitely difficult to know which direction to choose when angry voices are loud and with discord growing. I need to find a place of quiet, one where contemplation and prayers are not crowed out and strength can be gathered.
For now, I choose to stand outside my front door each evening; reading by candle light their names. Hopefully, I will find my answers in these few moments each night.
(If you wish to join me, step outside tonight and every night around 6pm)