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Sunday, July 24, 2011

to the young leaders at Utoeya

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This seems silly to write in a way; as if there’s anything to be said; as if I could find words for the situation (after all, great sadness steals vocabulary). But there was a thought that struck me over and over as I read the news, and I think it warrants a mention.

Norway. Of course you know what I’m talking about. I have been trying to process the stories from the past few days and I keep coming up with blank spaces in my head as I stare at my keyboard, wondering if my fingers will find the words my brain can't. I simply don’t know what to do with this information. It is, in every way, tragic.

Specifically, I have been thinking about that island of young leaders and how their lives will be shaped by what happened. I have been thinking about the reasons they went to Utoeya in the first place, the reasons they are involved in politics and culture and the kinds of ideas they have to effect change as they go. I am thinking about them, and hoping these ideas and aspirations are not lost as they move forward. It sounds so cliche to say that these young people are the future but in this case, they actually are the future leaders of that country, and perhaps (likely) of a lot of other things as well.

To the young leaders at Utoeya: we still need you.

It is my hope and prayer that you will heal – and then, over time –  allow yourself to lead once more.
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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

It constantly blows my mind and breaks my heart how 1 person can create so much destruction. Prayers for healing, restoration and Glory to shine through this darkness.
-M

Jan Henrik said...

I usually don't leave comments on blogs I don't know, but I stumbled over your post and I thought I should share an interview on CNN of one of the survivors. The general tone from the political leaders and the survivors is that this attack on democracy should not make us less democratic. If we give into hatred, terrorism will win. I am very proud of the spirits of the will be - future leaders of Norway.

http://if.else.jhh.name/2011/07/intervju-av-overlevende-fra-utya.html

Regards.

afterthoughtcomposer said...

Jan - thank you so much for your encouraging comment regarding the young leaders, and for directing me to this interview.
blessings,
ashley