Destruction, death hard to face

By Mike Wilcox
Publisher
Many of us watched pioneer newswoman Barbara Walters for many years. Whether on NBC or ABC, I always tried to watch her interviews with high-profile people at that time. I was saddened when I learned of her death last week.
Difficulties can debilitate us. Walters survived her own struggles, including four divorces. Her reported late battle with dementia took its toll on her health. We can all accomplish much in life — maybe not as much as Walters, maybe more. Regardless, there is much about life we can’t do anything about other than cope as best we can. 
 At least 37 people died from the recent winter storm in Buffalo, N.Y. Although no deaths were recorded in Michigan, that same storm paralyzed parts of it for days. Families are grieving. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, freezing temperatures and snow have wreaked devastation on our country. Death can come from disease, weather, accidents or unconscionably by design. 
We all have been horrified by the death of four college students in Moscow, Idaho. How could four beautiful people be stabbed to death in their beds reportedly between 3 and 4 in the morning? A young man who is a student at nearby Washington State University has been arrested at his parents’ house in Albrightsville, Pa. Moscow police believe they now have the murderer in custody. 
How anyone could commit such a heinous crime? I’m sure it was beyond the scope of these innocent young adults. We never know who is taking note of our lives, whereabouts and activities.
Regardless how calm and safe our community seems, we can’t take anything for granted. Lock your doors. Lock your bedroom door. Keep your handgun on your lampstand and try your best to create an environment that protects you as much as possible.
With so many people sleeping in the Moscow rental house, I’m sure these students felt safe. This became an opportunity for an evil mind. 
Typically, the attacker has the element of surprise on his side. It’s always best to think ahead. Sadly, four Idaho University students were killed by someone who planned, plotted and was patient enough to find the right moment to carry out the murders. 
Accepting and dealing with what we cannot change is one thing. Preparing for life but rolling with the punches, the turns and twists is another. Being watchful, careful and taking nothing for granted could make the difference between life and death.
Now a tragedy near home is being reported. A husband and father murdered his wife and two children a few days ago in Pullman. Who can fathom such a tragedy could take place in a rural community where everyone knows everyone? How could anyone murder their entire family?
Pray for these families, friends and loved ones as they grieve from such devastating losses … that our world finds a way to help those who think death is the only way out.