The news trickled in over the various feeds – local television news – local radio – and the all too familiar local gossip. Two people were found dead. Because of a recent divorce – because it is a murder suicide – the suspicions are that this is domestic violence related.

To anyone looking in they would appear to have been a happy couple, set to retire, loving and kind to each other. You would think that if you had not been the object of his wrath yourself. Inside you cheered when you heard she had divorced him. Inside you gave her a high five for finding the inner strength to move on and learn to live on her own after so many years.

Inside you winced when you heard the news of her death. The wounded child inside you sobbed for all the years wasted – the years ahead for their children and grandchildren who would miss them so terribly.

It would appear that I am grieving. Yes, those appearances are correct. But I am also MAD! I have called him names because of this. I have stooped low in doing so. And then the words of a psalm come to mind – the words of a hymn – the words of the Word – come to my mind and my heart calms.

It is not for me to judge. It is not for me to seek vengeance. It is enough that I can pray.

It would appear I can find peace.
——————————————–
the trifecta challenge is to write using the third definition of:
APPEAR
1a : to be or come in sight b : to show up
2: to come formally before an authoritative body
3: to have an outward aspect : seem
——————————————–
The above? A true story. Sadly too true. Happened last night. The family is devastated. Your prayers are encouraged.