As the country watches the town of Newtown, Conn., bury 26 children and adults who lost their lives in last Friday's unimaginable tragedy, the First Lady Michelle Obama has words of comfort for the grieving community.
In an open letter published in the Hartford Courant today, Mrs. Obama tells the Connecticut town irrevocably changed by the tragic school shooting on Dec. 14 that the entire nation is "holding you in our hearts."
"As a mother of two young daughters, my heart aches for you and your families. Like so many Americans, I wish there were something – anything – I could do or say to ease your anguish," the First Lady states in her letter.
While admitting that she "cannot begin to imagine the depths of your grief," Mrs. Obama goes on to write about the heroism displayed in Newtown last Friday.
"Over the past week, I have been awed and inspired by Newtown's heroes: the first responders who risked their lives at a moment's notice; the educators whose devotion to their students shone brightest in one of our nation's darkest hours; the children who comforted each other despite their fear; the families coming together to support each other as they grieve. … And I am so proud of the outpouring of love and support that has come from every corner of America."
Speaking from her perspective as a mother without being political, the First Lady shared her hope for the legacy of the 20 grade-schoolers and six educators who were killed on Dec. 14.
As she wrote from the White House, Mrs. Obama said, "In the months and years ahead, may the memories of those beautiful children and those heroic adults be a blessing for their families, for your community, and for our country, and may God bless you all."
