The events of last week were tragic for all of us, and most definitely traumatizing. A shooting in Milwaukie, Oregon, a shooting at the Clackamas Town Center in Clackamas, Oregon, and of course you have all heard about the events in Newtown. Many lives were lost last week, and that is hard for anyone. As a nation, we are heartbroken. All around the country, people are mourning for this tragic event.
Today I was sitting at my desk asking myself what these events mean for us as Defenders. They aren’t related to human trafficking at all, and they nothing to do with ending the demand, so what does this mean for us as Defenders? As I asked myself this question, I turned my attention to our vlog where Vern Smith, the founder of the Defenders, talks about why he started this organization. In that vlog, Vern says “it’s part of a man’s nature to want to be a Defender,” and I realized that now, in the midst of these tragic events, I think it is even more important for us to stand up and Defend the women and children around us.
I’m not just talking about ending the demand for commercial sexual exploitation. In this context I’m talking about supporting and defending the families who lost their loved ones; I’m talking about holding our children tighter, and appreciating every moment with them; I’m talking about being a healer of brokenness.
I did some research on how we as Defenders can stand up and defend our families and those affected in Newtown, and this is what I came up with. First of all, an article by Psych Central says that it is important to adjust to these events at your own pace. Turn off your TV and social media if you have to. Don’t adjust at the pace of the media. Mourn and grieve on your own timeline. That article also provides more great advice on how to handle these events on a personal level.
Check out this article by ABCNews if you want information on how to contribute financially to the families who lost loved ones. Finally, if you and your family would like to write a letter to the families in Newtown, the US Post Office has opened a box for that purpose alone. You can send your letters to the following address:
Messages of Condolence for Newtown
PO Box 3700
Newtown, CT 06470
Again, I know that these events are not related to human trafficking, but regardless, as Defenders we can make a difference and support those who need support. This is my call to action. In a time of national grief, we can bring about healing and restoration. We can be healers. We can be Defenders.
