In between shocking news coverage of death and destruction and my work, I checked the clock to see how long it would be before I could pick up my daughter from day care. My daughter is an innocent 4-month-old whose biggest concern was a wet diaper, hugs and smiles and her next feeding.

I wondered if I had made a mistake bringing her into this world. I wondered how I would ever be able to explain to her how it is that human beings can differ so extremely in their beliefs that they cause others horrendous pain. I needed to see that she was safe. She welcomed me with her usual sweet smile and I could tell she had experienced another wonderful day blessed by the excellent care of her provider. She did not know fear, hate, loss and terror.

She was experiencing only love and acceptance. I longed for the days when I was naive enough to think this was all that was required to save the world. The events of the day had not yet touched her life and I said a prayer for one small miracle.

Karen Benson

Enfield