It is no mystery to anyone that this world we reside in is familiar with hurt and horror. Just in the past week, there seems to be a new tragedy occurring before we are able to comprehend the last one. With the murder of Christina Grimmie, a mass shooting in Orlando and the death by alligator of a mere 2-year-old, it is easy to become consumed in all the evil that has occurred or may occur in the future. With all of the bad, though, good can and will be found. The tragedies that occur are disturbing and terrible, but what can come from them is actually quite beautiful.
For the last week, driving with the radio on has been somewhat unsettling. It seems all that has been discussed is the newest information surrounding the tragedies that have occurred. Everyday new information is learned, and every day it seems the situations become worse. Today, though, was different. While driving to work and half listening to the talk show playing in the background, I heard something that lifted my heart as opposed to breaking it. In the wake of the mass shooting in Orlando, a record-breaking five million dollars has been donated to the victims and their families. Not only this, but the shooting has drawn together countless people and groups in support of the LGBT community. This in no way makes what took place any less of a tragedy, but the kindness of those who came forward to support gives hope for humanity.
This phenomenon of people coming together in times of crisis is more common than one might think. I have personally witnessed it in the small town that I was raised in. About eight years ago, my hometown was severely damaged by an F-4 level tornado. Houses were torn down, businesses decimated and one life was lost. In the wake of this force of nature, there was an incredible amount of damage – along with an incredible amount of love and support. People came out of their comfort zones to help those in need and relationships that may not have occurred otherwise blossomed into true friendships. Just as the Orlando shooting, I would never wish for something like this to happen, but the damage was done gave way for new growth and happiness.
This last week has been long, and hard. The tragedies that have occurred are ones that will not be forgotten, and will hopefully prompt change for the future. With all the sadness circulating, my encouragement is to look for the good. Look for it in the way people react. Look for it in the generosity and support given for those in need, or the way our world is changing. When we acknowledge what has happened and bind together, that is when good will conquer.
