Hope in midst of tragedy

Mon., Sept. 18, 2017

As a mother whose son was shot and killed by his neighbor three years ago, I’m compelled to speak of the tragedy at Freeman High School, and offer the hope that I found in the midst of my horrific experience by quoting Billy Graham as he spoke to a traumatized community and grieving families after the Oklahoma City bombing.

The Rev. Graham said: “I pray that you will not let bitterness and poison creep into your souls, but you will turn in faith and trust in God even if we cannot understand. It is better to face something like this with God than without him.”

I’m living proof that when we trust in him to walk with us through our suffering and our pain, we suddenly realize that we now have peace that truly surpasses human understanding.

Cathy Uptain-Shive

Spokane Valley

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