A student from my school was hit by 2 cars and died this morning. The scariest part is that no one seemed too surprised. They told me that it happens from time to time and then proceeded to recount one student who was shot in the chest two times and lived.

What does it feel like to be a teenager and not know if you'll make it to graduation, much less adulthood? It seems too hard, and I'm not sure what to make of it.

I didn't know quite how to handle the news in class. The students wanted to talk about it, but it didn't seem to be processing talk. More just gossip.

Who are these kids?
What do they need?
Can I offer it?
Do I want to?

I know God will show me more when I need it, but for now I feel confused.

1 Comment

1. Anonymous on May 12, 2010 at 6:08 AM

   Hannah ~~ what difficult news this is. Perhaps God is with you all as you and your students discuss this tragedy -- at whatever level the students are with all of this. Sometimes acceptance and being present with another is called for, rather than leading or redirecting. Be still and you will know what's needed.
   Much love to you and your students,
   Martha