Learning lessons from suffering in our community

Statewide and even national attention was focused on McCook today, with the funeral for Kailee Clapp and the arraignment of her accused killer, but we hope the central issue isn't lost.

A young girl lost her life, her family and friends are suffering a loss that can never be restored -- and the young person who allegedly was responsible for the outrage has thrown his own life away and caused irreparable harm to his family as well.

We can only hope the senseless tragedy provides a reality check amid all the distractions and misguided priorities which have come to characterize modern family life.

We've already seen grief turn to an outpouring of support and concern for the family, as evidenced by candlelight vigils in Norris Park Tuesday night and Colby, Kansas, on Wednesday, as well as today's funeral service at Memorial Auditorium.

But what should we take away?

For one, we as adults should be renewed in our determination to be involved in the lives of our children and their friends.

Youth workers and pastors will have a new sense of urgency as they are reminded of the importance of their work. Programs like the TeamMates Mentoring project, in which Kailee was involved, should have no trouble recruiting new mentors.

Yes, it does take a village to raise a child.

No, we should not make assumptions about the activities of our children or their safety, even in a small town like McCook.

Yes, we should keep a lookout in our neighborhoods and pay attention to the people who come and go.

Yes, we should support law enforcement in their work, including curfew, alcohol and drug violations and other violations of the law in which adults may be tempted to look the other way.

No outcome will make up for the suffering Kailee's family and friends are being forced to endure, but we can only hope and pray it will help us make the changes that will prevent a future tragedy.