Michelle Obama Writes Open Letter To Parents About Discussing Sandy Hook Shooting

Michelle Obama Pens Open Letter To Parents On Sandy Hook Shooting
First lady Michelle Obama gives a thumbs up to those who decorated the White House as she speaks to military families in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012. The theme for the White House Christmas 2012 is Joy to All. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
First lady Michelle Obama gives a thumbs up to those who decorated the White House as she speaks to military families in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012. The theme for the White House Christmas 2012 is Joy to All. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

The horrific news of the Sandy Hook shooting left the country reeling and certainly gave every parent a reason to hold their children closer and hug them a little tighter. And while adults struggle to understand what seems like a senseless tragedy, the challenge for children to conceptualize the incident is even more difficult.

After the tragic massacre moved her husband to tears, the first lady has written an open letter to parents offering some ideas on how to discuss the event with children and young people.

In the letter, Mrs. Obama repeats her husband's sentiments of how both of them reacted as parents first and foremost upon receiving the news. She goes on to offer suggestions of comforting sentiments to share with children who can't understand the reason for the shooting.

We can tell our kids that we’re doing everything we can to keep them safe and make sure they feel loved – and so are their teachers, coaches, faith leaders, Scout leaders and everyone else who plays a role in their lives.
We can remind them to be grateful for the educators who work every day to help them achieve their dreams – and for the first responders who risk their lives at a moment’s notice to protect ours.

We can tell them about the extraordinary people of Newtown and how they have responded to unspeakable tragedy: the educators who sprang into action; the children who carefully followed instructions and comforted each other amidst the chaos; the neighbors and faith leaders who have come together to support one another.

And finally, we can tell them that it’s our job now to stand with the people of Newtown – to pray for them and to find ways, large and small, to show them that they are not alone in their grief. It is now up to us to carry the memory of those who were lost in our hearts and to follow their example every day, living our lives as they lived theirs – with courage, determination, hope and love. Those are the values that give us our strength as Americans and that we return to in times of crisis – not just because they help us heal, but because they define who we are, as a people and as a nation.

Michelle Obama's letter is just one among the overwhelming outpouring of support from parents and even foreign diplomats, offering their thoughts and prayers to those affected by the tragedy.

Read the first lady's open letter in its entirety here.

Before You Go

Charlotte Bacon, 6

Victims Of The Newtown School Shooting

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