Last night, most of us went to bed with the big bad news they call as the “largest shooting massacre in US History”. It happened in a nightclub in Orlando, Florida. News reports say that 50 people were killed with 53 more were seriously injured and brought in hospitals.
Today, we woke up with the continuation of this devastating news as more stories about it unfold.
Now, I’m not going to insult family and friends who have lost a loved one in this tragedy by pretending that I really know what is happening, who the victims were, or what the motive behind this is. However, even if this tragedy happened halfway around the world, it has taught me a lot of things, and for that, I appreciate life more and would like to share what I’ve learned with you.
Photo from: orlandosentinel.com
5. Life is short.
We are all going to die one day.
It may be sooner than we think and it may come natural or as tragic as this one. No one is ever ready to cross that bridge so as cliche as it may sound, live life to the fullest every single day. And please, spread more love and not hate.
4. Keep on going.
What happened in Orlando is super scary and it can happen to anyone. But don’t let that fear keep you from going forward. Keep doing what you have to do and celebrate life. Celebrate equality. Don’t let them win by letting fear get the best of us.
3. Celebrate the heroes, not the killer.
Don’t dwell on the person who caused this tragedy but focus more on the people who tried to save other people, who protected other people, who responded to the scene first, who are now treating the injured, and who donated blood.
Also, honor those who have passed away. The world had a great loss.
2. Hug a loved one.
Even if the tragedy happened halfway around the world, there is someone beside you who might need consoling and reassurance regarding hate on the unconventional. They might not be showing you this but deep down inside they are afraid, devastated, and mourning. Let them know that they are not alone. Be sensitive.
This goes both ways to the LGBTQ community and the Muslim community. Don’t make either feel ostracized.
Let them know that they are accepted and welcome.
1. Donate.
If you are near the area where this tragedy happened, it’s probably best to donate blood. If there is already an overflow of donation of blood, wait a week or two then try to donate again. It may have a surplus now due to the out-pour of donors but in a few weeks, when the spotlight on this story has been put somewhere else, the supply might not be enough.
Even if you don’t live near the area of the tragedy, donate blood whenever you can. It can help save a lot of lives.
If you can’t donate blood and want to donate cash instead, there is a GoFundMe page raising money for the victims.
My heart goes to victims, their families and friends. 🙁
