In memoriam ...

Through past experiences, we often look back on how a moment or an entire event happened simply by how we remember them. Such flashbacks help us to recall to the mind by an act of memory; think of again, as the primary definition of the word "remember" states.

However, in the case of an experience that is tragic, the secondary meaning is clearly more defining:

To retain in the memory; keep in mind; remain aware of.

When tragedy hits so close to home, to "remain aware of" is more fitting still. As many communities have come to realize, under the most unfortunate of circumstances, recollection returns all too often. Here in South Florida, and throughout the surrounding neighborhoods and business parks where BarCharts Publishing calls Boca Raton home, we acknowledge this every day - especially today.

February 14th, 2019 marks the one year anniversary of Parkland. Like Newtown and Columbine, it is another one-word reminder of what a school tragedy is and why we should remain aware of it, rather than just remember. Our offices are located less than 20 miles, roughly a 25-minute drive from the 8th worst mass shooting in United States history. Of course, what happened on Valentine's Day, 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School has been described in countless words - around town, and around the world. Through seemingly endless reports, stories, and personal accounts, the picture all of South Florida has painted will forever remain etched in humanity's awareness.

As the magnitude of the moment began to unfold, a colleague traveling westbound on the Sawgrass Expressway recounted the evident signs that something had gone terribly wrong. Scores of news helicopters seen hovering in the distance combined with countless police vehicles from every Broward County municipality racing down the highway shoulder was a sight never before seen. Less than a mile out from the school, it was clear what happened.

Aerial shot of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The 3-story freshman building, in the foreground, is where most of the shootings took place.   Joe Reedle/Getty Images  

On behalf of all of us here at BarCharts, it comes with a heavy heart that we offer our condolences and loving support to the families and friends of those who perished. We send our continued love and prayers to the students and faculty of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the town of Parkland, the city of Coral Springs and all who have been personally affected by this senseless act of violence. May this day, meant for expressing love, never again become one of sorrow.

We remember, recall and reflect because we remain the very residents of South Florida who also share in the loss of those who had entire lives ahead of them. We remain committed to offering a helping hand to those in need, and we will always remain vigilant.

Because we remain #MSDSTRONG.