On June 12, 2016, an unimaginable, tragic event took place at a local bar in downtown Orlando, Florida. By the end of it all, 49 innocent lives were taken. These 49 people were not only human beings; these 49 people were family members, friends, mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers to many people, and in an instant, they were taken away. In addition to this, 53 innocent human beings were hospitalized with not only physical wounds, but now, also mental wounds that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
As someone who considers Orlando a second home, this tragedy has really taken its toll on our community. Whether you have been affected personally or not, the people here are truly heartbroken for the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives. A city that is full of life, magic and fun suddenly became a city full of darkness and sadness overnight, and that is something I never imagined could be possible. While this has definitely affected everyone in Orlando, people are not letting this stop them from supporting their beliefs and what is right. The outstanding amount of love and support that this community is giving is truly inspiring. There are thousands of people out there donating blood and giving back in the best way that they can. This only goes to show that while we may be bruised right now, soon, we will be stronger.
I cannot imagine the pain that loved ones, friends, and family members must be feeling in this moment. Tomorrow is never promised, and while we always think that something like this could never happen to us, unfortunately sometimes it does. In this desperate time, it is important for us to be there for each other. Strengthen each other every day and conquer bad with good. Do not dwell on the bad, but instead remember the good and celebrate the lives of those who have moved on to a better chapter. Keep the ones affected dear and close to your heart and continuously pray for their own and their family's recovery. Do what you can to give back, and even more importantly, do everything you do out of love.
It is important for us now, more than ever, to stick together and build one another up. Believe that there is goodness in the world and bring happiness to one another each and every day. We've hit a rough patch, but that doesn't mean that we will always be broken. Together we are stronger, and with strength, we can conquer anything. Together, we are one city, one love and one pulse. Together, we are Orlando strong.
