95 degrees sitting in the direct sun on a very hot concrete bench. I listened as a guitarist readied the sound system. The organizer greeted people with long hugs and tears. Families watched as their children ran here and there. Wax candles were handed out. I thought surely mine would melt in my hands. Trinidad, Colorado, June 19, 2016. A small rural town preparing to have a heart felt memorial for those slain in Orlando, Florida. We are a small remote community compared to all the vigils held. Perhaps just over 80 residents of all ages sat in the heat. The hot dusty wind blew out our candles. We cried as the names were read. People formed a human shield around the flutist who accompanied the names read so the wind would not silence the flute’s mournful cry.

As the names were read I placed my hands against my heart, bowed my head, and let the tears cool the concrete where I stared. There by my feet I noticed a speck of blue moving along. Then I saw the ant carrying a treasure much bigger than him. Each step a name. At times his back end went up into the air trying to find traction. Somehow, it seemed fitting. A small community. Blistering heat. What could we do to change the world? To heal the wounds? The last name was read. The ant dropped his load. Then with a burst of strength he picked up his treasure and scurried off. Would not be denied.

And then the whisper gathered the tears sizzling like bacon on the hot concrete…

The road is long
With many a winding turn
That leads us to who knows where
Who knows where
But I’m strong
Strong enough to carry him
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
So on we go
His welfare is of my concern
No burden is he to bear
We’ll get there

For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother

If I’m laden at all
I’m laden with sadness
That everyone’s heart
Isn’t filled with the gladness
Of love for one another
It’s a long, long road
From which there is no return
While we’re on the way to there
Why not share

And the load
Doesn’t weigh me down at all
He ain’t heavy he’s my brother

He’s my brother
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother

~The Hollies “He Ain’t Heavy“