Rest In Peace Christina-Taylor

It is not often that listening to the news on National Public Radio makes me cry, but Saturday afternoon was different. It was a usual Saturday for us, chores while listening to the radio. Then the news interrupted music announcing there was a shooting in Arizona, a member of congress was involved as were bystanders. There was mention that one of the victims was a child, but no word on the condition. A few mintues later the top-of-the-hour news came on and there were fatalities, including a nine-year-old girl. I was upstairs, my husband had changed from radio to listen to a CD on the stereo downstairs. I called for him, my voice cracking and ran down. I told him the news and broke down crying. Why was I taking it so hard? Because we have a soon-to-be nine year-old daughter, Charlotte. I could totally see us going to an event such as this, while being able to pick up a gallon of milk. Being in journalism, I pride myself on teaching our daughters about their place and duty in this world. I actually became scared. While I cried, my husband holding me, Charlotte wanted to know what happened. I hugged her tight and told her. She became upset too.

Since the news broke, I have wanted to learn more about the girl. She is Christina-Taylor Greene born on Sept. 11, 2001 - yes Thee Sept. 11. I could imagine her being friends with Charlotte. Christina willing went to the event with a family friend and, like Charlotte, was recently elected to the student council.  I shudder to think how easily this could have been us. Rest in peace Christina. I hope your parents take some solace in knowing parents all over the country miss you.