Last nights thoughts. Writing things down has always helped me sort through the tough times. I did this for me, but my dear husband thought I should share... Today was a challenge, to say the least. Developing a strong network of colleagues, dare I say friends, at the workplace is a risky venture. I could not have been more grateful for them today. The bad news was delivered yesterday when our worst fears were confirmed. A sweet little 5 year old girl, nearing the end of her kindergarten year, died, after she was struck by a car. Shock and disbelief set in. That is just not how things are supposed to be. We are in the midst of job action. Stress levels are high. People pick sides and stand up for what they feel is right and what they deserve. Funny how tragedy puts everything into perspective. Today was tough. Every face bore the tell tale stains of tears. Everyone was quiet. There was a blanket of sadness and it was almost hard to breathe. A team of people were sent to help us try to make it through a day we will never forget. There was food. No one ate. There was coffee and most drank it, with shaking hands, even the non coffee people. We met the team. They had no set answers, but, would be there every step of the way as the day played out. No one knew what to expect. First k death they had dealt with. We were told to honour our feelings, be honest with the children, but to expect the unexpected. Laughter, fun, games, normal things, they would all happen, but, that was okay. Facts were shared. Heartbreaking facts about this little angel. Her poor mother. That was when the tears really started to fall. An only child of a single parent. It just doesnt get any worse. Counselors were available. Tocs were available. People were kind to one another in a gentle way. Hugs, pats on the shoulder and squeezes were exchanged as folks checked in with their peers and neighbours to make sure they were okay. No one was, but we all lied and carried on. Children filled the school. Their innocence somehow tarnished. In my room, no one spoke of the tragedy, but it was present and after our morning routine, we talked. I told them the facts I knew and that I was so very sad. Two colleagues were in the room with me and as we talked and cried, a safe environment was created so the kids could talk. And they did. Questions like she will come back though, right? Where did they put her body? Is the man that killed her in jail? were answered to the best of our collective ability. They were open and accepting. We had survived the morning and while there were tears and kids who had seen and knew too much so they needed to leave, we were all still somewhat okay. It comes in waves. The grief, the realization of how the world is forever changed. The people I work with every day have been brought together on a completely new level. I have a heightened level of admiration for these colleagues, my friends. I know that they get it. They do this crazy job because they love the kids. Every last one. It is my privilege to work with such kind, caring and compassionate people. Please join me in sending prayers to all the people involved in this tragedy. Love your kids, your partners, your families and friends. Make sure they know it. And the people you dont know? Treat them with kindness and respect. Always. That never gets old. There are no guarantees and none of us are promised a tomorrow. Make sure you live your todays.
Posted on: Fri, 30 May 2014 13:19:40 +0000
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