We’re at the end of a very meaningful day. Three years ago today, 32 Hokies lost their lives because of one student who lost his mind.

I’m sure many of us have shed some tears today. I wanted to write something, but in all honesty, I’m not all too sure of what to write.

The heart is an amazing thing that we’ve been given. It can love. It can forgive. It can heal. But it can also relive some of the pain we’ve felt throughout our lives. Sometimes I can still feel the fear and hurt caused by the tragedy. But I know that those who we lost three years ago really aren’t lost. They go on living, just not on earth. They’re just a little ahead of all the rest of us. And that gives me hope.

One of the victims was in a couple of my classes. I can only recall having one conversation with her. But I will always remember what a beautiful smile she had. I just wish I was able to know her better, as well as all the others who are gone. It’s easy to feel like I missed out. We could’ve been friends.

If this seems a little sorrowful, don’t be disillusioned. I know that we will meet all our loved ones again someday. We will also meet our Father, and Jesus Christ, and it is faith in these facts that bring me joy. This life is not the end. We still have much, much farther to go. Do not despair, but have hope. Death is not but the doorway into eternity.