Always a Way

Gilbert, the family golden retriever of Melissa and Mark Hortman, who also lost his life along with Melissa and Mark

For anyone unsure of how to move Love forward during such a tragic weekend here in the states I discovered a way. For anyone unsure of what I am speaking of you may Google their names and read about it, as I do not mean to be writing in code. Another heartbreaking and senseless tragedy, which feels all too abundant these days.

www.helpingpaws.org is an organization where Gilbert, the family golden retriever came from. He was a service dog in training, yet  too happy-go-lucky, and did not graduate. Melissa Hortman, who was his foster home trainer and her husband, Mark, were able to keep Gilbert as a valued member of their family.

I have not been able to move this horrific act of violence through my body until I found a tangible action that I could take. I made a donation in their honor to the Helping Paws organization and saw that they have set up a Facebook page where donations can be made there as well.

Why I’m popping in here only briefly until I return in July, is to invite each of us as we feel moved, to find ways in which we can show up. None too small, all greatly appreciated, and what it requires is sitting quietly and asking to be led. The moment I did all the necessary information I needed came my way.

Yes, we can, I can, and reminding ourselves constantly of this moves one out of a hopeless, powerless space which often morphs into inertia. There IS always something that is asking for our attention. In whatever arenas, causes, we find our hearts feeling bruised. Those are the ones needing our awareness and actions if possible.

“Bruises aren’t badges, but proof that I tried.” ~ Ella Baker Smith.

The two children of the this couple don't even have the comforting presence of their beloved family dog in the aftermath of this tragedy. So heartbreaking.

This is part of the statement released by the children. I hope some people reading it will be inspired to act, with their list of wishes, because that would be what their parents & Gilbert would have wanted.

Be a Light in this World.

"If you would like to honor the memory of Mark and Melissa, please consider the following:

Plant a tree.

Visit a local park and make use of their amenities, especially a bike trail.

Pet a dog. A golden retriever is ideal, but any will do.

Tell your loved ones a cheesy dad joke and laugh about it.

Bake something — bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa, and share it with someone.

Try a new hobby and enjoy learning something.

Stand up for what you believe in, especially if that thing is justice and peace.

Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect. The best way to honor our parents’ memory is to do something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”