Praying for Charlie Kirk’s Family: Reflections on Loss, Faith, and Resilience

On the eve of 9/11, when so many Americans relive their loss and trauma, we have again been rocked by tragedy. 

There is no comparing the two events. I am in no way equating this shocking murder of Charlie Kirk to the murder of thousands of Americans.

I am, however, unable to let this pass without throwing my thoughts into the ring.

When I hear or see news of sudden death and loss, especially in the event of murder, I cannot help but feel it on a visceral level.

As I am sure so many of you can relate to- when we live through our own traumatic events, we are forever more acutely aware of others stepping their own first steps into that particular version of hell. 

I feel every one I am made aware of. 

And tonight, I feel deeply for Charlie Kirk’s young wife, children, and the rest of his family. 

I do not know specifically what his wife - who must now suddenly absorb being called a “widow” is experiencing. I do, though, know what level of pain and evil will be waging a war to destroy her heart and soul.

To turn her away from God. 

To blame God.

I know the absolute agony she will forever carry, of raising her beautiful children without the presence of their loving father.

I know the absolute shock and struggle to wrap your mind around how someone intentionally chose to end her husband’s life.

I cannot fathom the added level of horror the entire family will experience, with the actual act spread around the internet. Just like the family of Iryna Zarutska will have to navigate. 

I remember the slice of incredulity and pain I felt when people hopped online to comment that my husband “must have deserved it.” That the only reason a soldier would kill his superior officer is if that officer deserved to die. I wish I could wrap my arms around the Kirk family, and protect them from the same. 

Charlie Kirk inspired, moved, and energized millions of Americans. 

He also enraged millions of Americans, simply for speaking his beliefs and inviting open conversation with anyone who wanted to debate him. America is now officially a country where free speech is exercised at the risk of persecution and even death.

I am so sorry Charlie and his family paid such a steep price for this right. 

Now his family will have to endure their loss, his sacrifice, being used as talking points. They will have to hear unhinged lunatics blaming him for his own murder. 

They also have - at some point- to endure a trial. To constantly relive this day. To hear new details unfold. To learn how preventable it was. How senseless. 

Only their own faith will pull them through.

No one can walk this for them.

Charlie, now, is absolutely walking in the light of God. His mission, in many ways, will now grow even stronger.

He has been made a martyr.

I did not agree with everything Charlie said. 

But I respect him for having the courage to say it. And for inviting anyone to challenge and debate him. 

It is now upon us to do whatever we can to lift his family up, and ensure his sacrifice is not in vain.