Today as we mourn for the 22 lives taken in last night’s bombing in Manchester, England, lives that will, unfortunately I fear, resemble that of Alyssa Elsman — far too brief and once filled with now heartbreak inducing lost promise — I wish to post her father Thomas’ letter to her, left at the site of a memorial to the victims in Times Square:
Clik here to view.
It reads:
"There is no words that can express our gratitude with the outpouring of love and support this city has shown us. Our medical staff, The NYPD and most of all YOU. This impromptu memorial dedicated to our daughter and seeing and talking to many of you has helped me cope with our loss. I have met so many people from different countries, religions, creeds etc......it doesn't matter..you have shown us that when you remove bias..racism..and ignorance..WE ARE ALL ONE... Your condolences have been sincere and taken to heart. Please also remember there are 20 other families affected by this and please keep them in your thoughts too. Alyssa loved this city...she loved Times Square. She would appreciate all your kind words but she would also tell us all to get back up and continue. That's how full of life my daughter was. This city and our hearts are scarred, cut to the core, but in true New York City fashion..We will heal..We will prevail..and we will never forget. Alyssa Lynn Elsman... my beautiful 18 year old girl. I look at myself and will never understand how I could ever have made such an angel...I’m glad you got your mothers looks..... I don't know anything currently..I always have the answers..but I am blank...I have a hole in my heart that can never be filled. My world changed when you came into it and it is unexplainable with you leaving it. I love you kid. Just no words ...Love you love you love you.... Dad"
Thomas Elsman never conceived that he would have to eulogize his daughter, just as we never thought we would have to grieve the 22 young lives cut short last night.
I hope this father’s words, written in his unimaginable sorrow, can make their way to Manchester to offer what small comfort they can.
Will this madness never stop?