Blogher: lauriewrites

The Internet has indisputably changed the way people around the world can respond to events both large and small, and in the case of the murders at Virginia Tech, the voices are myriad and heartfelt. In the hours since the shootings at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 32 people have since been confirmed dead, with more than 20 others still being treated at local hospitals.

I’m a college professor, the godmother of an 18-year-old bound for Blacksburg in the fall, a friend of two Hokie parents and cousin to two more current students. But it’s the simple fact that I’m a breathing, feeling human being that gives me a strong interest in what VT students have to say about their experience in the wake of the worst shooting in United States history.

Social networking can get a bad rap in the context of its inherent possible dangers for young people. Still it appears that when tragedy strikes, its powers can be used equally for good. Its ability to expand the reach of students who communicate their thoughts and actions on a daily basis becomes especially powerful when the news is more important, and as in this case, painful.

Leslie Madison Brooks: The Academic Blogosphere responds to Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech massacre - wiki 16 of the victims names have been made public
Collegiate Times - list of confirmed deceased (14 of 33)

Today at the Mission:

In the days that come the tragedy of Virginia Tech will become politicized. It will be a rallying cry for some, a polemic for others. There will be great anger, and harsh rhetoric, accusations and recriminations. We, however, as followers of Christ, are called to another way, a deeper way, the way of the cross. Each of us must come to terms with what it means to be Christ in our own world, to come to terms with how we might comfort the afflicted or, in the case, the affected. When we are in communion with Jesus on the cross we realize our only response to that great tragedy - as with this one - is to love others as he has loved us, to greet the parched with cool water, the wounded with handfuls of salve. We will be imperfect, and we will surely have failings, but as this tragedy lingers in our lives we must love all the more.