As we are all well aware, the past week has been filled with sorrow. The mass shooting that occurred at a gay nightclub, Pulse in Orlando, was one of the worst in the history of the United States with 49 dead. How a person could bring themselves to take the lives of so many people, due to the fact that they are different, is still a mystery to me. However, I do know one thing for certain; the massacre that has occurred in Orlando this past week has affected not only those directly involved, but the nation as a whole. People from every state have held vigils and gatherings in order to convey their support for those lost and those who are scared and hurting. One man in particular used his opportunity to the best of his ability in a unique and impacting way.

Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of the Broadway hit 'Hamilton', used his time on the air at the Tony Awards this past Sunday to tell the country about his stance in lieu of the recent events in Orlando. He wrote a sonnet to share with viewers about the act of hatred that has occurred this past week;

"My wife's the reason anything gets done

She nudges me toward promise by degrees

She is a perfect symphony of one

Our son is her most beautiful reprise.

We chase the melodies that seem to find us

Until they're finished songs and start to play

When senseless acts of tragedy remind us

That nothing here is promised, not one day.

This show is proof that history remembers

We lived through times when hate and fear seemed stronger;

We rise and fall and light from dying embers, remembrances that hope and love last longer

And love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside.

I sing Vanessa's symphony, Eliza tells her story

Now fill the world with music, love and pride."

Miranda's speech has moved listeners in every way imaginable, pulling tears from their eyes and breaking their hearts. He mentions the "senseless acts of tragedy" that occur all too often in our country. The acts of hate that tear us apart from being equal are a constant reminder that every day truly is a gift and that nothing in life is guaranteed.

Miranda also reminds his audience that hatred is always present, but it is survivable, as we have seen in the past. Love and hope overcome these obstacles, and as cliché as that may sound it is completely and totally valid.

Wrapping his speech up by saying "...love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside...Now fill the world with music, love and pride," Miranda stands his ground about gay rights. Through his words in this sonnet, he brings hope to those who are hurting, reminding them of the darker days that we as a country have made it through, and shedding light on the fact that hope and love are stronger than any tragedy that may strike. Yes, it is difficult to deal with at the time, but remember how strong we have been. The rights of every man will not be swept away or pushed aside and forgotten about. One day, every person truly will be equal and will not ever have to live in fear of the consequences for being him or herself.