A few years ago, Josie and Ava were watching a Disney program. At 8 and 9, they were excited about a young, rising star named Christina Grimmie. Her love and talent of music fueled their desire to be musicians.

When Ms. Grimmie was shot to death, my daughters were devastated and in shock. Why? Why her? She was such a good person. 

There is no answer to this question. We keep asking this question and there is no satisfactory answer.

On the heels of this tragedy, another one occurred: 50 people killed in Orlando. Innocent young lives were taken by an armed and mentally deranged person.My girls were very quiet. “I’m so….sad,” Ava said before she fell asleep.

Two weeks ago, our neighbor across the street murdered his wife with a gun. To my children, it seems like guns are everywhere. We live in Arizona…America…so they are. Guns are everywhere.

I don’t want my children to grow up fearful and angry.

I don’t want my children to be victims of terror or violence.

I don’t want my children to be disgusted with their world.

Ava had decided months ago that every Monday during summer vacation, she would play her violin for the Alzheimer residents at a nearby facility. As I drove her and Josie to the center today, I told them that every person can only control how they act in this world. “You two are influencing your world for the better. You are spreading love and music to lonely people and you help them be happy. I’m very proud of you.”

They nodded silently.

Sometimes, the only answer to senseless violence is the persevering action of kindness. Love will always prevail.