Thoughts...Newtown, Conn.

I thought I would take a few minutes and write a few thoughts in the shadows of the horrific tragedy that took place in Newtown, Conn. last week.

First, my sincerest condolences go to all the families and people of Newtown.  My prayers and thoughts have been and will be with those who lost loved ones.  I know that there is nothing that can replace the lives of these 26 people, but my hope is that the love of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ will bring you peace in the days, weeks, months, and years to follow.

As tears came to my eyes and an emptiness filled my heart after hearing the tragic news, I really began to think of my family and my life.  Man, how much do we take for granted the things that we are so blessed to have in our lives?!  I have really been thinking on how awesome the relationship with my kids really is and how soon that will be changed as they leave home.  I can't even begin to fathom what it would be like without them at all!

Since, the events I have begun looking a little longer at my children and other kids that I see elsewhere.  I begin to take a little deeper look at the things that God has blessed me so greatly with like, my wife, my job, my horses, my dogs...the sunrise...the wind...the weather...our home, our food, our clothes...  All these things I take for granted so often!  It is really sad that it takes a tragedy to make me think deeper about them.

As a country, we need to quit trying to place blame for things like this and really look deeply at ourselves and at things we can do to help preserve the lives of others!  It is amazing how a kind word can lift a spirit, or how a little smile can be repaid by another one.  I know that these things will not stop all the atrocities that this world can dish out but maybe it can make things a little better in our own little world.  After all, when asked what the greatest commandment was Jesus responded by saying, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul and love your neighbor as you love yourself!"  After looking deeper at my blessings, in spite of how "bad I think I have it," maybe I can make a little difference.  I hope I can start it at home, and they'll help me further it!

As we see the events that come from this tragedy, may we really see the blessings that God has given us as a nation and do our part to make it a better place for mankind, especially for our children!