Thoughts on a horrifying week in American history, and what I'm (trying) to do about it

I'm sad today. It's hard for me to think about anything else, really. I feel a heaviness in my heart, and I can't shake it. I hate that too many families this week have to bury their loved ones, their loved ones that were tragically taken by senseless acts of violence.

I'm just sad.

All I really know to do is pray. But instead of praying for just the families, I'm also praying that those in leadership will be moved to take action against this violence. I don't know what that looks like; be it stricter laws, background checks, I honestly do not know. But I know that, even though I support our current president and will support whoever our next leader will be this November, speeches are not what is needed right now. Action is needed.

I'm just sad. And I know God is sad too. Because he loved Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, those officers in Dallas, and yes, even the shooters, as much as He loves you and me.

So this weekend, I'm going on a date with my boyfriend tonight. I will hold him a little closer, hug and kiss him a little longer, and hold his hand a little tighter. Tomorrow morning I will make coffee for my sister and I and we will talk about anything and everything, and I will resist complaining or taking any moment of that time for granted. I will cherish that time together a little more fondly. Tomorrow afternoon I and my sister and my boyfriend will spend some time with three precious children that have become nestled into our hearts. I will listen to them, maybe even splash around in the pool with them, and I will show them kindness and gentleness a little more. Because those families in Texas, Missouri, and Louisiana were robbed of any more time and memories. Those families in Texas, Missouri, and Louisiana left children behind who just wanted one more minute with their daddies.

And all the while, I will pray. I will pray to the One who is sovereign, and to the One who makes sense to me, when nothing else makes sense at all.

Will my acts bring back those loved ones? No.
Will my acts change the world or bring world peace? Doubtful.
Will my acts bring forth new laws or regulations. No chance at all.
But should that stop us? No.

I implore you, now more than ever. Let's do what we can, be it in mighty ways or in small, to try to bring some light into our corners of the world.