First Snow in Moravia, NY December 2012
As I viewed this photo of the first snow in Central New York State, thoughts cascaded over and through me, ” Ah, what I need is a snow day!”. Maybe you know the kind; growing up in Central New York State, I remember them well. I would wake up in the AM after hearing the wind blow outside, peak outside and all would be quiet and the world would be white. Nothing happening, except maybe the sound of the town snow plow coming through. The world as we know it, seemed to stop, to be in a giant spontaneous pause.
I would be lying if I said my thoughts have not been occupied with the sad event in Newtown, CT or the shooting at a local mall in Clackmas, OR. 20 precious children plus adults gone in a flash! My heart cries; I feel my shoulders pulling up to my ears; I hold my breath, and tears keep coming to my eyes. I want to hold close all those I hold dear. I’ve read so many eloquent pieces written by friends and I can not come close. Words escape me. No words can bring back these lives so needlessly lost. No words can erase what those who experienced the horrific event and lived wll be experiencing for the rest of their lives.
Why, I ask, is it not clear that assault weapns should not be available? Why is it not clear that health care, including full benefits for mental heath issues, is a necessity? We can only hope that this conversation will no longer be avoided. In my opinion, it is time for this country to grow-up. We aren’t the Wild-West anymore! Violence and revenge are not charateristics which define a civilized society. More gun availablitly and possession are not the solution to safety in our communities.
Maybe as you read this you notice your shoulders are rising to your ears. Maybe you are aware of holding your breath. The truth is we cannot bring back all those who have died. But, we do have choices about where we go as individuals and as a society. As individuals we can stop, let our shoulders release, and exhale the stale breath and tension. We can hug our children, friends, neighbors. We can look that homeless person in the eye and show we care. We can communicate with our legislators and neighbors and most of all our friends and loved ones.
Yes, we all need a snow day, the kind that makes us stop and let’s us experience that all encompassing peace and quiet. Perhaps in that quiet our hearts can heal and we can move forward into the New Year to create a softer, more gentle world. It is our own choice to make, one person at a time. The world depends on it; your world depends on it.