Delayed Justice

Richard Dana’s mother, Chad McElwee’s mother, Lee Randolph Priester’s mother, Janeane Lusk’s mother…and a host of other parent and family members were there.  And so were those who support them in their grief and loss including–but not limited to–Sgt. Terry McGee of the Grand Rapids Police Department, Chris Cameron of Silent Observer, Anita Droog of Kent County Victim/Witness Unit, Don, our own Melissa.  

And, yes, any threatening weather had already passed and we were left with a hot, steamy summer day in Michigan.  And Penny Lusk was again offering her services to brighten faces, shoulders, arms and hands.

Penny Lusk paints a hand at the Conquerors' picnic.

 

Yes, hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, chips.  A picnic.  A picnic with a distinctive purpose.  And that purpose is to remind themselves that even though the worst thing that can happen, especially to parents, already has happened, there is an affirmation of life and purpose and memory.  The Conquerors’ message:

“In all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”  Romans 8:37.

Even this.