(Opinion) Bear Flat Dispatch: Thoughts on the worst of tragedies in Tumbler Ridge

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — There are horrific tragedies around the world every day, but a mass killing of kids at a school is the worst.

To have that happen not only somewhere in Canada, where such events are rare, but right here in the Peace, is devastating. We have all seen reporting on school shootings in the U.S., and how residents are often shocked that such a horrible event could take place in their relatively peaceful community and region.

Sadly, now we know how that feels.

Those most closely impacted by this tragedy have had their lives changed forever, and the rest of us can only imagine what they are going through. The old and somewhat tired saying, ‘our thoughts and prayers,’ can seem inadequate and even meaningless, but it does mean something.

I personally have found my thoughts consumed lately by this event. Despite the evil that we often see around the world, most people have a sense of empathy and caring for fellow people, and that has been very evident in the past week.

I also believe that Canadians generally excel with those traits. That is something we need to safeguard from any divisive and hateful forces. The support for Tumbler Ridge from across the region, country and indeed around the world has been remarkable. 

‘Time will heal’ can also often seem cold, but there is truth to it. The beautiful community of Tumbler Ridge will always bear the scars of February 10th, but it will slowly recover and carry on.

For the rest of us, it is important to support them now as we can, and fundraisers and vigils are part of that.

However, it is equally important as a society to always try to do better and learn from this. Obviously, there is a mental health part to this that needs to be examined. This individual’s access to firearms is another.

There are troubled people among us who need help, and we must always strive to do better for them, and to safeguard our communities. 

We live in a complicated world. The ongoing Winter Olympics highlights the best of the human spirit, but we are constantly reminded of the worst that humans are capable of.

All we can do is strive for the best.

Ken Boon