My deepest thoughts, hopes, and prayers go out to all who are affected by the tragic collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis.

After coming home Wednesday, I rode my bicycle toward the area of the rescue efforts. I think it’s a human thing to do - be close to where tragedy has occurred, as if to offer some kind of hope or empathy to a situation where one feels helpless. We all want to “do” something or be present.

After gathering briefly with some of the onlookers, I felt the need to leave to let rescue workers continue their work, as the crowds of onlookers seemed to grow. Some came to take pictures, and others just to look to see if this very “unreal” event could truly be real.

In times of tragedy, we all feel the weight of grief, loss, longing, despair, or helplessness. Some of us imagine what we might have done in that situation, and others of us try to visualize the thoughts going through the minds of those caught in the midst of the unthinkable event.

In the midst of all of this, I wanted to offer up some ideas of what we can do, to both help, and to heal.

1. If you are inclined and able, The Twin Cities American Red Cross depends on donations to help in situations of disaster. Your dollars can go a long way to help them!

2. Take time - to talk to people, to children, to neighbors, and to any persons of support. Because we are all affected emotionally, taking the time to be present in these moments can be of profound help to one another.

3. Understand that we all react to crisis in different ways. Some people cry, some become angry, some withdraw. Every expression of grief and loss is appropriate. Again, take the time to be present with another person.

4. Reach out if you need support. Talk to a friend, family member, pastor, counselor, etc. If you have no one to turn to immediately, contact a local crisis center. In the Twin Cities, you can contact Crisis Connection, a 24-hour crisis hotline, at (612) 379-6363.

5. Take time for yourself. Remember to eat - and to REST. Strong emotions like grief can take a lot of emotional and physical energy. Even if you are unaware of the stress on your mind, body, or spirit, you may need the extra rest and nourishment.

I wish everyone the deepest thoughts of healing and support at this time.