A Reflection on Loss and Hope

Last week, the United States faced two heartbreaking airplane tragedies that left us reeling in disbelief. Among those lost were children, parents, ice skating champions and their coaches, a physician, an ill child, and military personnel. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn their passing.

As a former school counselor, I vividly recall the confusion and grief following 9/11—seeing a principal rush down the hallway, wide-eyed and unsure of what to do. In moments of tragedy, we often ask ourselves: How can we help? What should we do? At that time, all I knew to do was to listen—to offer students a space to share their feelings, ask questions, and find comfort in connection.

This week, you may find students, teachers, or parents turning to you with questions about these recent events. I encourage you to let them speak, to express their thoughts and emotions. In times of grief, acknowledging loss and honoring those who have passed can be a powerful step toward healing.

I’ve put together a simple activity that may help students process their emotions while also recognizing and appreciating the lives and contributions of those we lost. Inspired by one of my favorite articles, Saying Hullo, again (White, 1988), these ideas can be adapted for any age group:

A Reflection Activity for Students

1. Remembering Those Lost
   Ask students to think about the individuals who lost their lives last week—help them by naming groups such as:

   • Ice skating champions

   • Coaches

   • Parents

   • Pilots and airline staff

   • A physician

   • A child battling illness

   • Military personnel

   • Other family members

2. Recognizing Their Passions and Contributions
   Guide students to reflect on what these individuals might have enjoyed in their lives.
   What did they contribute to the world? What did they work hard to achieve? What might have brought them joy—whether in their careers, their talents, or their relationships?

3. Expressing Gratitude and Connection
   Encourage students to think about what they would say to these individuals if given the chance.
   Would they offer thanks for their talent, inspiration, or service? This is also an opportunity for students to consider their own gifts. What talents do they have? How can they use their abilities—just for today—to brighten someone’s day?

4. Honoring Their Legacy
   Help students recognize that those who passed away left behind a lasting impact. They were heroes in their own ways, shaping the world through their dedication and passion. Invite students to choose one small action to honor their memory—whether it’s practicing kindness, working hard at something they love, or simply doing an act that would help another person.

Loss is a painful reality. Noticing and incorporating the contributions of those who were lost and seeing them as examples to follow, helps us to honor those who are no longer with us. Their hopes, their talents, and their dreams can then become parts of ours, and their legacy lives on.