In the wake of tragedy, people grieve. They reflect on the recent injustices they have suffered and question their faith in the idea that "everything happens for a reason." Our most recent experiences with devastating tragedy as Americans has forced us to wonder what specifically all this violence and hatred rooted in. The frequency of mass shootings being reported, more specifically, the school shootings are seemingly unheard of. Not only does it force us to reevaluate how safe we feel in this country, but it forces us to spectate on whether we have proper laws in place to fix this problem.

Last week, Noblesville West Middle School experienced a tragedy of their own. On the morning of May 25, two innocent bystanders, a student and teacher, were gunned down by a fellow attendee of this middle school. A circumstance so preposterous, so obscene, it was nearly hard to believe. You hear reports about tragedies like these happening in different places all over the country, but never YOUR hometown. But once it happens, we are forced to reevaluate how safe children are in their school environments.

When the news broke about the Noblesville shooting, I was in disbelief. To think that something like this could happen was petrifying and too close for comfort. Not only did I worry about all the children that experienced this trauma, but also all the children I have taken care of throughout the years. For as long as I can remember, I have worked with children, as do most girls my age. I have somewhat of a maternal instinct, and I find comfort in knowing that I am shaping these children into better humans by simply interacting with them after school a few days a week.

And I will be bold enough to say that working with children is some of the most humbling work you will ever do. Not only does it test your patience, but it forces you to truly care about someone other than yourself. And this is not the same sort of love or care you feel towards your friends because like you are responsible for this other person’s life and well-being. Working with children is exhausting, difficult, and at times extremely frustrating, but nonetheless very rewarding.

While working with children, you come to realize how much we really do need each other in this world, and that begins with fostering love in these children’s lives. You have no idea what goes on these kids’ home lives, and it is not your job to understand. Your job is to simply love them and trust these children in general are good-natured and kind-hearted. In this sense, I am only able to slightly better understand the love a parent feels towards a child. Love between a parent and child is one of the purest forms; a sheer and limitless bond of unconditional love.

Working with children in any capacity may seem like a very daunting feat, but these bonds are extremely mutualistic. As you nurture and care for them, they teach you how to appreciate the simple joys in life.