When tragedy occurs, people in small, close-knit communities come together. We’ve seen that happen many times in our own community, where friends and neighbours circle those who are suffering to offer solace and comfort.
But how do you do that in a community that is experiencing such anguish, such agony over a senseless act of violence, one we are all mourning, although from a distance.
Nova Scotia is a province of small communities, of people who are accustomed to looking out for each other and reaching out to each other when bad things happen. But no one could fathom that the worst mass shooting in our peaceful country, something beyond comprehension and so alien to all of us, could occur anywhere, never mind such an area so quaint, so pretty — so safe and serene that people chose to retire there.
There have been virtual tributes, and there will be a virtual vigil Friday evening at 7 p.m. on a Facebook site, Colchester-Supporting our Communities.
At least one candlelight vigil has already been held here, in Virgil as residents of the Glenbrook condominiums stood on their front steps Monday evening, with candles to remember and pay tribute to the lives lost in Nova Scotia.
For now, a virtual hug around the Nova Scotia communities where these tragedies took place will have to suffice.
Know this, Nova Scotia, all of us across this vast country share your anguish, mourn with you, and send our thoughts and prayers in the hope they will help, in some tiny way.
We are so very, very sorry for your loss.
Penny Coles
The Local
