We know that it takes more brain power to create positive thoughts and comments. Humans are using parts of their brain which facilitate the strengthening of logical reasoning and social emotions. This hopefully equates to more positivity and a transference to being kinder to others and being someone who stands up for others.

We need to educate and talk with our kids more. They may not listen, but we have to find a way to get to their hearts and soul. We need to suppress our desire to blame, and teach our children how to show respect, kindness and compassion. We need to empower them to make them stronger and more resilient. Victims need to reach out rather than become isolated, sad and depressed. We have to teach our young people to become the ones who speak out against actions that hurt others and to also be the ones that stand the strongest against the behaviours that are being done to others.

This was the fourth Christmas with Amanda gone. It feels just like the first one with the deep sighs and sadness. I personally am not feeling that it gets easier with each year going by because the loss is still there. It's not about forgetting or getting over it. It's about missing someone you loved. Yes certainly, we have other family that we love and care about. And we don't love them any less. My experiences this Christmas season have been phenomenal for giving back. Some on my own and some with Amanda's legacy.

This was one of the anticipated birthdays you were looking forward to other than 16 where you could finally learn to drive. But sadly, it was not a milestone you would ever reach. I often wonder what you would be like as an adult in our ever changing world.= What would the future hold if you hadn't had that awful Thanksgiving weekend and that horrible experience you came home to tell me about. If you had been able to sleep better that weekend. If others had just left you alone.