As the father of a teenage son, I was shocked to hear of the tragedy that occurred at St Patricks College on Monday morning. My heart goes out to the families of the young boys and they are in our thoughts and prayers.
Since the tragic stabbing death of 12 year old Elliot Fletcher Monday morning, all media have been comprehensively reporting the incident, with many talk back radio shows posing the question ‘how does a tragedy like this happen’?
Many psychologists and social professionals have weighed in with their opinion, but the general consensus is that there is no one cause, no one simple answer, certainly no quick fix that many would like there to be.
Sadly, accidents and tragedies happen, which makes them no less devastating or in any way lessens the weight of the loss of a loved one.
For those of us blessed to be untouched personally by such tragedies, remember every day to count your blessings and hug your children a little bit longer, kick a ball around in the backyard for a while, tell those close to you that you love them and just stop what you are doing and talk to each other – no TV, no computers, no mobile phones.
To the family of Elliot Fletcher; my sincere condolences for your loss. God Bless.