Still in shock

A week ago last Thursday, on Oct. 26, my good friend and colleague, Dawn Bowker, was killed on Highway 82. She was in a head-on collision with a truck driven by a 23-year-old who was allegedly drunk. She was on her way to school and was only five minutes from her destination. The shock of losing her still hasn't completely penetrated the brains of those who loved her.

Dawn was a 6th grade teacher at Somers Middle School. She was one of those rare people who strive to make everyone around her feel good about themselves. She always had a word of encouragement if you were down. She was possibly the kindest and gentlest person I have ever met. She would willingly give up her own time to help anyone. Although 20 years my junior, her positive attitude and the way she lived her Christian faith quietly yet loyally were a shining example that I looked up to and respected deeply. Knowing Dawn was like knowing a real, live angel.

Dawn and I began our teaching careers together at SMS last year. We were both really nervous at this time last year as our first parent-teacher conferences approached. Up to this point, we were still getting to know each other and worked to always exhibit complete professionalism, so I hadn't seen the silly side of Dawn yet. That night, after all the parents had gone, we both peeked out our classroom doorways. As our eyes met, Dawn said quietly, "Are they gone?" and I replied, "Yeah, I think so." At this point, quiet little Dawn moved slowly to the floor (almost in slow-motion) until she was on her back, waving her hands and feet in the air and quietly yelled "Yay!"

I knew I loved her then and that we would be great friends. At that point, I was sure we were looking forward to many, many years of teaching together.

As teachers, especially new teachers, we were always very busy. We talked often about doing stuff together and made tentative plans to go hiking, etc. We were finally going to put word into action and go see a Christian musician's concert together this weekend. I never would have guessed that the impossible would happen and that we wouldn't get that opportunity. Every once in awhile, someone comes into your life and you know they are going to be a true friend for life. Dawn was taken from us so suddenly. I feel completely ripped off.

Just a little over a week ago, Dawn and I were talking about the tragedy in the Amish school back east. Both of us were struck by the outpouring of forgiveness that has been extended by the community towards the perpetrator of such a heinous crime. We talked about how cool that was, and how we hoped we would be able to extend our Lord's forgiveness in such a situation. In keeping with what I believe would be Dawn's wishes, and in keeping with her beautiful family's beliefs, I choose to state publicly to the man who so carelessly took her life that I forgive you. Just as God has shown us, Dawn's friends and family, much grace and has given us much peace this week as we've been grieving, I pray that our Lord will pour out His grace and peace on you and your family. The Lord is already using this terribly tragedy for good, as it has not escaped the students' attention that it took place during Red Ribbon Week, a week in which we talk at length to the students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. This circumstance has given them a real understanding of what we were trying to tell them. So I pray you will find your way to peace, my brother.

Amy Holtz

Kalispell