In the Aftermath of Tragedy

You'd have to be quite disconnected not to have heard about the tragic event at Utah Valley University two weeks ago, where political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated.

My oldest daughter was present at the event with her friend, and both are understandably shaken. She's found it challenging to return to school, describing the campus as feeling heavy—a sentiment that may linger for a while.

This situation reminds me of the September 11, 2001 attacks, which occurred just two weeks into my freshman year of college. It was a difficult time, and my roommate struggled with deep depression amidst the uncertainty, sadness, and fear. It felt as though the world had changed forever.

I worked a few days this week in my role as a nurse. I couldn’t help but notice the significant number of patients grabbling with serious mental health struggles.

It made me wonder about the state of the world.

To me, it feels like the powers of darkness are heavy. Maybe heavier than they have ever been.

But….I can also see that the powers of light are just as strong. Maybe brighter than they have ever been.

I've observed this light in my two oldest children over the past few months.

My son is dedicating two years to serve the God he believes in, aiming to bring more light and joy into the world.

My daughter has made remarkable choices, becoming happier and more herself than she has been in YEARS. Her positive contributions at school, with friends, and at home are a testament to her growing light.

Her light grows brighter in direct contrast to the backdrop of darkness.

It can be said of our day: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair..." (Charles Dickens: A Tale of Two Cities).

What, then, is true?

Are things worse than ever? Perhaps they are.

Are things better than ever? Maybe so.

Did you know YOU get to decide?

Your brain will find evidence for the story you choose to believe. So, whatever story you tell will become your reality.

Will you feed your brain doubt and fear? Hate and divisiveness?

Or will you choose to notice the good?

There is plenty to observe on both sides of the equation.

The crucial point is to always remember that the choice is yours!