On the recordDecember 17, 2012
The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting was shattering for Americans everywhere. For such an unspeakable act of violence to take place at an elementary school--a place of safety, learning and lively spirit--was devastating. My own sons are grown, but my memories from their first days at school are still very vivid. The shooting was both a deeply personal family tragedy and a tragedy for the community of Newtown and for our Nation. I, along with all American parents, feel the loss personally. It brought not only tears, but also deep sadness. The youngest victims were 6, 7. It's unacceptable. We feel the loss of each child, so innocent, so joyful--their hopes, their dreams and their potential never to be fulfilled. We mourn the loss of the teachers and staff who were a comfort to their students and who did all that they could to protect them. My thoughts and my prayers are with each of the families and all of Newtown. did all that they could to protect them. My thoughts and my prayers are with each of the families and all of Newtown. We have seen far too many moments of violence and loss. This loss is too devastating to ignore. I believe that even in this time of deep sadness and grief we must resolve to end such violence. We must do better to understand and treat mental illness.…
