Jun 15, 2016

Like many people, I was shocked, sickened, and saddened to learn of the shooting that happened on Sunday near downtown Orlando. We have since learned that this was the worst mass shooting in US history and that it was an act of hatred, targeting a gay night club.

As you may or may not know, I live and work in central Florida. The shooting occurred not too far from my place of work. This was like a punch in the gut. My heart aches for everyone affected by this tragedy. Unfortunately these acts of violence have become all too common, but it does not diminish the fact that 49 people lost their lives and over fifty others were injured in a senseless act of hatred. I claim no special insight or closeness to what happened, other than physical proximity, and this has nothing to do with the book, but I also can’t just continue without addressing what happened.

I’m amazed to see the reaction of this community (and the whole world) – tons of people volunteering, giving blood, showing solidarity, and wanting to help in any way they can.

There have been tons of responses and ways to help. Here are some of them: GoFundMe, Planting Peace, OneBlood.