Yesterday, on Sunday, April 19th, 2020, this beautiful, courageous woman, married with 2 children, did not return home from work. She did not return home because she was senselessly murdered by a gunman on a rampage. This is a rare event in Canada and one that has left our country in shock. The mourning will soon follow. There 16 others who died in Nova Scotia yesterday from the monster who took out whatever his issues were ~ he is included in that number. It's not clear if he shot himself or if the officers responding did. It doesn't matter. He's dead but 16 others, innocently going about their day, ended up in his line of fire. I won't even name him or put up his picture. I don't believe that anyone who commits this magnitude of a crime should be named, or referenced. Was it for ego and fame? Was it a life gone wrong? Was it for power? Was it for revenge? Why does someone do this? We may never know why, as he's gone, leaving the families left behind forever wondering and our amazing, typically peaceful country hurting.
Constable Heidi Stevenson left behind a loving husband, a teenaged son and a young daughter. She comes from a family who will miss her every day, for the rest of their lives. A 23 year veteran, Heidi was involved in her community and touched many lives over the years.
She will be missed by all her knew her, just as all the victims from yesterdays tragedy will be. I can't name them or honor them as that info has not yet been released. But for today, we will hold Heidi in our minds and her family, friends and community in our hearts.
Today and until all the funerals are done, flags will be lowered, tears will be shed and questions will be asked. Families will be held, memorials will be held and pins will be worn. To Heidi, thank you for your service and your commitment to keeping our country safe from harm. To Heidi's family, and to the other victims and their families, we hold you near, in our hearts and minds, as each of you works through this incredibly difficult grief journey. Alone but held up by our country. Namaste and love to you all.
~ Chy
