Like many of you, over two days, I watched the news in horror. My heart broke for the families of the victims. The mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, and siblings trying to come to terms with a reality ever-altered. This was a brutal, evil and senseless crime.
My thoughts were also with the Card family.
I, too, have lost a loved one to suicide, and it is not an easy path. Weeks and years filled with grief, confusion, guilt, and second guessing. Did I do enough? Did I see it coming? For many of us, the answer is no.
Taking one’s life is an act of utter despair, when blackness has engulfed you, and you see no hope. Death is preferable to taking one more breath.
The Card family will suffer, and some of you might see that as justice. They will grieve alone. Friends don’t know what to say, so they say nothing. Neighbors will avoid them in the grocery store. They will be in a vacuum of grief.
I lived in Maine for 20 years, four of them in the wonderful city of Lewiston.
If Maine is the community I remember it to be, some courageous person will ask the Cards if the are okay. Bring them dinner. Send a note.
Lewiston is strong, and strength comes from having courage.
Julia Groom, Richmond, Virginia
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