Coping with Grief and Tragedy

Submitted by Tara on July 20, 2012 - 10:58am

March 2001 Employee of the Month Award from Aurora Century 16

The events at the Aurora Century 16 Movie Theater have stunned and saddened people across the country. As a former employee of the Aurora Century 16 Movie Theater, my thoughts are with the employees and those in attendance last night.

I did not believe what I was reading this morning when I learned about the events that occurred while most of Colorado slumbered. Working at the Aurora Century 16 theater was my first job after I graduated from Purdue and moved to Colorado over 10 years ago. If you have never worked in a movie theater, it is not as glamorous as you might think. My work uniform involved wearing a vest with popcorn on it and a bow tie. Popcorn does have an alluring aroma, but not when you can't wash it out of your hair. I was moved when I heard the 911 call on the news this morning that was made by an employee. I also heard that an employee was the one who pulled the fire alarm to begin the evacuation. Their bravery and quick thinking surely saved lives. Not only have their lives been changed by the tragedy of last night, I can't imagine what the prospect of returning to work there would evoke. I dug out my old Employee of the Month award from Aurora Century 16 and now display it proudly in memory of those who senselessly lost their lives and those who acted bravely.

Whether or not you knew someone that was impacted by the events last night, you may be feeling a sense of loss or sadness. Please know that you are not alone. Please let others know how you are feeling. While often the best remedy is speaking to a trusted friend or loved one, the library has resources that may also assist you in your healing. If you or someone you care for needs additional help coping, please seek the assistance of a health care professional.

Life after Trauma: A Handbook for Healing by Dena Rosenbloom, Mary Beth Williams, with Barbara E. Watkins
When Someone You Love Suffers from Posttraumatic Stress: What to Expect and What You Can Do by Claudia Zayfert and Jason C. DeViva
Healing through the Dark Emotions: The Wisdom of Grief, Fear, and Despair by Miriam Greenspan
Finding My Way: From Trauma to Transformation: The Journey through Loss and Grief by John M. Schneider
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief through the Five Stages of Loss by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler

Tara's blog

Comments

Submitted by Genine on July 23, 2012 - 2:12pm.

Thanks for sharing this and putting together some helpful resources so quickly, Tara. Much appreciated!

Submitted by Melody on July 22, 2012 - 4:45pm.

Tara, your blog is much appreciated. Many of us feel a connection and sadness that you expressed very well.

Submitted by Melody on July 22, 2012 - 4:43pm.

Tara, this info is much appreciated. It shows an awareness and connection many feel.

Submitted by Michelle on July 20, 2012 - 1:53pm.

Thanks for sharing, Tara, and for the list. Take care!

Submitted by J.Allen on July 20, 2012 - 1:23pm.

Thank you so much Tara for displaying this, our prayers and condolences go out to all who have been directly and indirectly affected by this tragedy...

Submitted by Anonymous on July 20, 2012 - 1:22pm.

Very heartfelt and helpful. Thank you!