One of the most gut-wrenching messages sent by a student to her parent was: “If I don’t make it, I love you.” This sentiment captures the horror experienced by countless families yesterday afternoon in Parkland, Florida, as an active shooter unleashed chaos at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The devastating toll now stands at 17 confirmed fatalities, with many more injured, leaving parents and loved ones in a state of anguish.
During the lockdown, students were forced to communicate with their families, conveying the harrowing reality they faced. For many parents across the United States, the thought of how to support their children during such a crisis is a chilling reality. February has only just begun, and already we have witnessed the 18th school shooting of 2018. It begs the question: will we ever feel secure sending our children to school?
Chilling Exchanges
Carla Simmons, a reporter for the Miami Tribune, shared a chilling exchange between a parent and their child during the lockdown. The parent’s message was heartbreaking: “Stay hidden or play dead if there is an active shooter.” It’s difficult to fathom maintaining composure while trying to guide a child through such a terrifying ordeal. Unfortunately, school shootings and the drills designed to prepare for them have become all too familiar, akin to the tornado and earthquake drills of our youth.
Another poignant exchange shared on social media by WSVN 7 News revealed a student’s fear: “If I don’t make it, I love you and I appreciate everything you did for me.” As a parent reading that, it’s impossible not to feel a wave of despair. The absurd reality is that gun violence has become a routine fear in our schools.
Desperation and Trauma
A Twitter user named Emily shared distressing messages she received from her sister during the shooting, urging her to call 911 and reassure their parents of her love. Other students utilized social media to reach out during the lockdown, highlighting the desperation felt within those walls. After the situation was contained, first responders and SWAT teams evacuated classrooms, yet the trauma of that day will linger.
Morgan Taylor, a student who experienced the shooting, voiced her exhaustion: “It’s only February, and we’re already seeing double digits in school-related gun violence. I’m so tired. Aren’t you tired?” When will we say enough is enough? The time for discussions around gun control has passed; the time for action is now. Join organizations like Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America to advocate for our children’s safety and learn how you can help.
Additional Resources
For those seeking more information on related topics, consider checking out this post on at-home insemination kits that can help families grow. Also, explore additional resources on treating infertility, which offer valuable insights into family planning.
In summary, the messages exchanged during such tragic events highlight a painful reality that too many families endure. It’s a call to action for all of us to advocate for a safer future for our children.