Like a dark cloud passing over our community, the recent shooting at STEM school in Highlands Ranch overwhelmed our senses once again much like Columbine did twenty years ago. For many, especially those who has lost loved ones in any such a tragedy, an event like this can resonate with the terror and pain they felt so long ago. Such a visceral experience can trigger dark emotions that discourage one along their journey. Craig Scott knows better than most of such challenges and recently penned some honest and powerful words of encouragement that we at RachelJoyScott.com wanted to share. It is our prayer you find his words uplifting and inspiring.
To my alumni and community,
Do not let these events get you down. Do not give your day away to sadness and depression. For 20 years, I’ve been made aware of these violent acts. It used to get me down and steal my day leaving me sad and depressed. NO. Instead just combat it with love. It sounds trite, but it works. Decide to take the sadness and anger and turn it into determination to live your day more zealously. Don't be stuck. Act on the things you know make your world brighter. If you believe, pray. Let this crap be FUEL FOR YOUR FIRE…your PURPOSE. There is a time to let our hearts break for what breaks God’s heart. But for some and I speak for myself, my heart has been broken enough times from this kind of news. The time for sadness for me is over. No more being down. It is up to you. A psychologist Gary Borgeson, once a counselor at Columbine, taught me you can neurologically translate emotions into other emotions. He said you can turn anger into determination and sadness into an appreciation for life and fear into courage. If the news media negatively affects you, TURN IT OFF. Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things..
If there was an enemy, someone or something that wanted to ruin your life, it would want the news of horrible things that happen in our world to steal your life away. Look it in the face, and say “F#$% YOU.” I’m not one to cuss. But there’s a time for everything.
No more sadness, no more tears, let love and determination replace all your fears.
Your friend, Craig