My dearest daughter,

I am writing you again just after another coward felt emboldened to take the lives of innocent concert goers.   I could care less who did it because in the end, this person is a coward and does not deserve to be remembered.

It hurts me to know a mommy like me may never see her beautiful child’s face again. But this is the world we live in.  This place we inhabit is a place of intolerance at times.  History is ripe with examples of intolerance and murder for “superior” beliefs.  One day, it’s going to be very hard for you to understand how people could be so careless,and cruel about other humans’ lives.  You will try to understand and likely fail, but there are lessons to be learned from all of this.

1.  Do not be afraid.  Fear is a powerful drug.  It will cause anxiety and panic when you least expect.  Fear has it’s place, but don’t let it keep you from living life to its fullest potential.
2. Respect.  Hold your beliefs close to your heart.  Do not let anyone turn you away from those beliefs that give you peace and a moral compass.  But respect that often people will not agree.  If you have the patience, try to hear their side of the argument.  If you can’t, let them know you agree to disagree.
3. Safety is a perfect illusion.  You will be taught that one neighborhood is safer than another.  You will learn that we are are “safer” than other nations.  You will learn to value safety.  Nothing is wrong with caution, but safe only exist for moments in time.  At any moment, anywhere can be dangerous.

I am writing about these three lessons to tell you one huge thing.  DO NOT LET THE FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN DETER YOU.  You must live.  Go to the movies, concerts and foreign lands.  Enjoy living because life is more glorious when you drink it in.

With all my love always,

Mom