Tribute to Virginia Tech
It has been only one week after the Va. Tech massacre and still, I cannot believe it is all real. I woke up last Monday morning after the first two shootings, and read the news on the Internet, which unfortunately didn't phase me very much. (What does that say about violence in our everyday lives, huh?) It wasn't until that afternoon at work, when hearing about the other murders that I really begin to feel the effects of what was happening.
Through this tragedy, I've realized that technology is certainly a remarkable thing. The 24 hour news coverage, video images, Internet articles, and first-hand accounts brought the Virginia Tech shootings into every household in America. Through this coverage, a school and a nation came together. I have seen so many people honoring both those who were killed and those that survived the horrible day. USC has held multiple ceremonies and candle-light vigils for the victims and their families, as I'm sure most colleges have. Students have been wearing the VT colors in honor of the University, and have held signs saying, "Today, We are all Hokies...".
When tragic things like this happen, one cannot help but realize how precious life is. A professor of mine really hit home when he came into class Tuesday afternoon and stood in front of us in silence. He looked at each student and finally admitted it was hard for him to lecture that day. "How can I continue lecturing as I did last week this time when something like this has happened? It could have been any college campus, it could have been any dormatory or classroom, it could have been any of you." The truth is.....he is exactly right.
So, always remember that you only get one life to live...so try to make a difference each and every day. Do something fun for yourself, smile at a stranger, eat that extra brownie...you never know which day will be your last.
In conclusion, I want to give a special tribute to all of the victims of the Virginia Tech Massacre. I have been praying steadily for their families and will contintue to pray for the entire student body as they go back to classes today. I think one of the VT students was correct when she said, "You have broken our hearts, but you have not broken our spirits. We are stronger and prouder than ever...Love, in the end, will always prevail."