JRHS Writing BLOG

Thursday, May 10, 2007

How Are Our Lives Measured?

I recently read in World Magazine about the tragedy that occured at Virginia Tech.  I read about personal testimonies from survivors of that day as well as small biographies of the victims.  Although I do not personally know anyone who perished that day, I do know a student who attends that University.  I found myself sitting at my desk, hurting inside for the many families and friends that were now broken hearted and grieving.  I thought to myself after reading about girls who were shot that were my age that it could easily have been me.  This lead me to dwell on two subjects; forgiveness and legacy.
Even though I didn’t loose someone I love that day, I felt bitterness in my heart for Cho Seung-Hui (the shooter).  I didn’t understand how anyone could do that.  In the quietness of my room, God led me to forgive him in my heart.  Now… one might say that forgiving him belittles what he did.  That is not the case.  By forgiving him, I’m releasing myself from the bitterness in my heart.  Also, by forgiving him I am not saying what he did was ok.  I am also not saying that those families won’t miss their loved ones.  What happened is not ok, it doesn’t make the pain go away, but it does give freedom to move on.
Also, many of the students wanted to be remembered for their love for Jesus.  It was written in World Magazine that on the Myspace page of Lauren MacCain is listed Jesus Christ as “the love of my life.” Another student, Brian Bluhm wanted to be remembered “first and foremost as a Christian.” These young adults left this legacy, if nothing else, which makes me think that if my life was suddenly taken, how would my family and friends remember me?  I would want them to remember that Jesus was my best friend and God was my refuge and strength.  Also, my pastor once said, “Your life is measured by what you give away.” These words rung true in my ears and have influenced my life since.  I hope that the day I die, whether I am surprised by it or not, I will be prepared and ready to meet my Father in Heaven. 
I hope that reading my response to this tragedy will encourage you, reader, to consider forgiveness and the legacy you’re leaving behind. 

World Magazine. “Darkest Moment” (16-23). Jamie Dean. April, 2007.
World Magazine(20-21).  Kristen Chapman. April, 2007.