Remembering

By Audrey Kletscher Helbling

     Today marks one month since Jesse, Hunter, Reed and Emilee lost their lives in a bus crash near Cottonwood.

     I cannot even begin to comprehend such a loss. But I can comprehend how residents of this rural community have embraced each other in their shared grief. The world has also embraced them. The importance of that outside support was expressed in a postcard I received from Lakeview District Superintendent Sheldon Johnson on Tuesday.

     In part, he wrote, “The kind words, thoughts, and expressions of concern you shared during the bus tragedy in our community last month were greatly appreciated…The outpouring of response from across the state, the nation, and even the world has overwhelmed all of us at Lakeview School, but the power of that support has given us strength and has allowed us to begin the long process of healing. Please know that we are grateful.”

     An artist’s rendition of Lakeview School graced the front of the postcard. The expansive prairie sky loomed dark in the background. But at the edge of the stormy sky, a rainbow stretched toward the heavens. Symbolic perhaps that in the darkest of days, hope shines.