Dear Sir,

Words can be powerful, but they can also fall as meaningless.

In a world where the written word has become increasingly artificial, I am left wondering what speaks empathy to people who are struggling and need our support? What do we say that could possibly make people feel better when tragedy overwhelms and there is such sadness and loss? How do we become more connected, feel more supported and find some sense of peace through it all?

Perhaps it comes down to saying less and doing more. Still, there is an important human element that needs to be acknowledged as people grieve. Kind words must be shared. Compassion has to be demonstrated. How we express our deepest sympathies, share the burden of grief, and help people understand that we really do care is important.

In early March of 2018, my sister lost her son. Ben was 21 and he was her only child. Admittedly, I still struggle with an array of emotions, but one of the most challenging is the feeling of helplessness. The inadequacy stems from the fact that no one can ever fully understand or feel what it is like to lose a child unless it has happened to them. Nothing anyone can do or say removes the kind of unimaginable pain a parent goes through in that situation.

In spite of the difficult process, my sister has shared how important it has been to have the love and support of her family, friends and community. Six years later, it seems that the passing of time would release some of the burden she bears, but the harsh reality is that she only carries the weight of it differently. Still, we show up, and still it matters that we do.

To say that the week of July 7 was a heavy one for Bermuda falls incredibly short of describing the pain and suffering that families are going through. It is next to impossible to find the right words because it is the type of compounded devastation that leaves us speechless. The only way to navigate through the loss of seven members of our community — including the murder of Diante Trimm on June 7 — is to genuinely show up for each other, not just with words, but with actions that show we care.

To the families who are grieving, we stand with you. For the friends who have lost their loved ones, we support you. To the children who may not understand, do not feel safe, or are saddened that a classmate is gone, we will do our best to hold you up and walk beside you.

We know that the process will be long and the burden is heavy, but we hope there is some comfort in knowing that we are here to help carry as much of it as we can. Behind the many words of condolences stands a community of helpers who will show up because we really do care.

Find your tribe, lean on your support, be kind to yourselves, and know that you are not alone on this journey.

KELLY HUNT

Executive Director

Coalition for the Protection of Children