It’s amazing how quickly a family outing or simple event can turn into a tragedy at the flip of a coin.
Summertime is usually spent hanging with family and friends, relaxing in the afternoon under the waning sun on a porch, and having a good time.
However, these last two weeks have been nothing short of tragic as unimaginable events have hit Grand Forks and area – the deaths at Pines Bible Camp and at Cascade Falls.
Around North America, various events have pointed out that one must learn to value the small moments and not to waste unnecessary seconds on negativity. Rather, one must take into account that life is precious.
There was a recent shooting at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin, and prior to that a massive explosion of gunfire at a screening of the latest Batman film.
Closer to home, in Toronto there was the Eaton Centre shooting, followed by a similar tragedy during a block party in a neighbourhood in Scarborough.
When events like these occur, it’s important for families and the community to unite and come together.
In a small community such as Grand Forks, it’s easier to reach out and become one force to overcome the events of these past two weekends.
It’s been nearly a year since I first arrived here but I’ve seen the community’s ability to rally behind just causes and put their support behind their fellow neighbours.
Tragic events have a way of placing a piece of coal in one’s stomach, lingering days after the cause. It’s mind-numbing, harsh and won’t dissipate immediately.
When such events occur (large or small), I’m glad I have a mini first aid kit and working flashlight in my car for any emergencies that may occur, from small cuts caused by hiking through trails to a larger gash that leaves a bloody mess.
Call me overly paranoid, but I do like to be prepared even for the simplest of events. Maybe it will help, maybe it won’t, but at least my mind will be sound.
As August continues into September, there may be future storms that Grand Forks may have to ride out. Let’s hope there isn’t, but in any event, let’s be prepared.
– Cassandra Chin is reporter for the Grand Forks Gazette
