Connecticut Elementary School Puts Things In Perspective

It's remarkable, how it takes a tragedy like the Connecticut shooting to put some things in proper perspective. We have this happen to us all the time.

When 9/11 happened, we remember where we were when we heard the news. We changed the way we thought about our fellow Americans and more importantly our family. We acted differently toward each other, at least for a while. When the floods hit in the Southern Tier, people were helping each other. Some by volunteering with the American Red Cross, taking meals to areas devasted by the floods. People would help each other clean up and clear out their homes and businesses. We said we wouldn't forget...and we remember for a while.

Now the Connecticut school shooting happens. For me, when I heard about this tragedy, I wanted to go to our school and get my daughter Tara. I wanted to hug her and kiss her and tell her how much I love her. Of course, Tara would say "Why are you doing that Daddy." There's been times when I would just give Tara a kiss on top of her head while she's watching TV and she always says, "Where ya going Daddy." I tell her no where I just wanted to give you a kiss. I probably don't do that enough.

Do I take the kids for granted? I don't think so but I can always do more to let them know that I love them and appreciate them. For those who may not know, I also have two step kids, Devon and Riley. The tragedy at Connecticut happens and I realize that it can all end without warning and I might not be able to do a thing about it.

Today I feel differently then yesterday. I find myself just sitting on the couch watching Tara play and just listen to her talk. The things she does and says have me laughing a little more today. I just want to reach out and give her a hug and a kiss and hear those words, "Where ya going Daddy."

I tell myself, I will remember what happened in Connecticut. I say I will never forget...... I just hope this time I remember for longer than

Riley/Tara/Devon

"a little while". Love ya, Devon, Riley and Tara.