Down But Not Out

As I'm sure most of you know, there was a horrific shooting here in Tucson yesterday morning. I was having breakfast with Tom, the Princess, my mom, and dad when the television at the restaurant flashed a news bulletin about what had taken place. I cannot comprehend how someone can believe that shooting other individuals, including a small child, is the way to voice your opposition to their beliefs/values/political views. It is also heartbreaking to me that I have to explain to my child why someone decided to take the life of another. She's nine and this is a lesson I wish she didn't have to learn!

This event has also caused me to put into perspective the work that Tom does. When there are shootings, stabbings, fires, car crashes, etc...he & the other brave folks of the Tucson Fire Department put their lives on the line to help those in need. The first responders to yesterday's shooting put aside their concern for their personal safety and rushed into the "lion's den" to help the victims. I have always said that I don't worry much when Tom's goes off to work because Tucson is a relatively safe community and it's more small town than big city. Despite that fact, I always make it a point to tell my husband to "be safe" when he kisses me goodbye on his way out the door to work. But now I find myself worrying...and I don't like it....all because some asshole decided to use violence to make a point.

Anyway, I'm not trying to be Debbie Downer but Tucson is my home (no matter how often I say I hate it and want to move...lol) and I needed to express a little of how I'm feeling about what took place. I'm a mixture of anger, sadness, and despair.

Please keep our community in your thoughts and prayers. We're broken and we need everyone's love & assistance while we grieve and try to heal.