Vanda Boone was murdered this month.
By a man.
On a trail where I ride my bicycle all the time.
Though I did not know Vanda, this feels personal. Another woman, just like me. In the place so many of us go when we need to be outdoors.
Yesterday’s heat did not deter 80 of us, mostly strangers, from gathering for a Moment of Blessing. Interfaith Works brings people together when someone is murdered in our county to reclaim the place of violence.
These events help me with the sadness and the big questions I’m left struggling with. What is so deeply wrong with us? Why do men murder women who are total strangers, and murder women they profess to love?
I have found few answers to these questions in my 30 years of working to end violence against women. I guess this is what draws me to the spiritual comfort of the Moment of Blessing. In standing with others, I am not alone in being deeply moved. It consoles me to form a circle, cry with others, and speak of life and love.
Can You Relate? 