fbpx

Strength in Numbers

By Grace Solomon

 

We awoke that morning to a day that felt like any other. We hurried through our morning ritual, a routine of tooth-brushing, cereal-pouring, lunch-making and other usual tasks that eventually led us out the front door and on the road to school.

For some, it would be for the last time.

By the time the sun set that evening, we were shaking, crying, trying to catch our collective breath, defiantly processing a kind of horror that only happens in “other places.” Or so we thought. Hours later, the words “Parkland Strong” were trending on social media.

In the days to come, #ParklandStrong became a rallying cry, appearing on T-shirts, bumper stickers and just about everywhere else. But for those of us who proudly call ourselves Parklanders, these words were much more than a hashtag.

“Parkland Strong” became a movement of kindness, courage, support, resilience, generosity and faith. I watched closely as families came together to help those in need. I witnessed children offering to help neighbors, while teachers reached out to console frightened students. I saw local businesses rally in support of a community in search of answers. For some, it was a small act of kindness. For others, it was a generous offer from an unexpected place.
When I joined the Parkland City Commission, I knew this was a city unlike any other. Over the years, I’ve experienced all the things that make Parkland special. I’m not talking about the manicured lawns or the beautiful homes. I’m talking about the people. The families. The connection we have with each other.

Before Feb. 14, it was hard to qualify what that all meant. But in the days that followed our city’s darkest hours, I learned what makes Parkland special. We are a family. Beneath the superficial possessions, we share a deep connection to each other. We are all vulnerable to the challenges that life deals us. No one is above that.

To each of the 17 families who continue to grieve, to the students still recovering from injuries, and to the teachers and students still working through this tragedy, please know that your Parkland family is here for you. I won’t pretend to understand the depth of your pain, but we will do everything we can to provide comfort, love and support.

Those 17 angels will continue to guide us and inspire us. We will remain strong for them.
Parkland strong.

You May Also Like

Discover The Palm Beaches Launches Marketing Campaign to Highlight Local Community

The initiative will feature several ways for the local community to get involved.

Third-Generation Luxury Jeweler Ammrada Opens its Doors in Miami Beach

The company offers high-end jewelry options to customers.

Dara Torres: Still Making an Empowering Splash

Her competitive pool days are behind her, but the achievements of the Olympic swimming legend endure.

Editor’s Letter: Happy Mother’s Day

There’s no stopping the fierce and empowering moms featured in the May issue of Lifestyle.

Other Posts

Craig Zinn Automotive Group Helps Bring Animal-Assisted Therapy to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital With $500,000 Donation

Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and provide comfort and companionship to patients, including children.

Inside the Design: Adriana Hoyos

The globally renowned interior expert offers insights into her work at Shoma Bay.

Yupix and Lofty Brickell Team Up to Provide Next-Level Meta-Reality Tours

Potential buyers can now get a taste of what it’s like to live in a luxurious waterfront condo that will be located in Miami’s bustling Financial District.

Habitat for Humanity of Broward Hosts Legislative Build Day

The nonprofit organization has assisted over 600 low-income families in discovering appropriate homes.