To those of Newtown, CT -

Six months ago I lost my younger brother in a horrible accident - he was hit by a car getting off the school bus and in an instant - he was taken from us. He was 15. I was in (and very much am still in) a similar situation that many of your families are in now and I want you all to know - that you CAN and you WILL heal in time. Every day forward will feel a little (and I mean, a very little) more normal than the day before. A lot of people will tell you to "be strong," but honestly - it is okay to be weak during times like these. Rely on those around you. Talk to people. Share your feelings and share your thoughts. Cry when you have to. Don't hold anything in. Trust me - the more you let it out, the better you will feel. Remember that you have friends, family and the rest of the world praying for you and just waiting for you to ask for help. Accept what people offer you. Never feel like you're alone. I cannot find the words to truly express how much I care about you all and how much I feel for each and every single one of you. I am thinking about you and I pray that you all are able to find something every day that makes you smile and that takes the pain that you feel away for even just a couple of seconds. Do things that you love and do not ever lose hope.

All my love and hope,
Amanda

Pennslyvania

by Amanda in Harrisburg