1. Losing a loved one is a deeply personal affair. When we gather to commiserate & console the bereaved, we do not arrogate to ourselves the right to choose mourners. Moments such as these must reveal the best of our humanity, not our worst instincts. Respect. Respect. Respect.

2. Unbeknown to most, sometimes it is moments of tragedy & crisis that cause us to see the big picture of life; they are harsh reminders of who we are as a people; of the many things that we share which are more in number and quality than the things that divide us. Respect.