⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses school shootings, lockdowns, children’s fear and safety, and includes strong language. Please listen with care.
A couple weeks ago my children’s school went into lockdown after an active shooter threat in our community. What I felt that day and in the days since was fear, shock, disbelief, anger, and helplessness. It was too close, and our community has been deeply shaken.
In this episode of Small Things, Big Life, I share my raw, unfiltered reflections:
The surreal fear of racing to the school not knowing what was safe
The moment of relief and heartbreak when I reunited with my kids
How my son’s grief and sense of safety shifted in ways he couldn’t fully explain
The overwhelming need to stay busy, checking in on others, coordinating support, holding space while I shoved down my own emotions
The deep gratitude I feel for teachers, staff, neighbors, and a community that showed up for each other in the darkest moment
This isn’t a political conversation. It’s not about solutions or debates. It’s an honest journal of what it feels like to be a parent when the unthinkable comes too close, and how the “small things”, a hug, a text, a moment of connection can carry us through fear and grief.
If you’ve ever felt your world stop in its tracks, or struggled to hold both heartbreak and gratitude in the same breath, I hope this episode reminds you: you are not alone.
💚 Stronger Together.
