There are times when words seem inadequate, but sometimes that is all we have and so we try to do the best we can.

France and the French people suffered a terrible tragedy this week, and the early death toll of more than 100 will surely rise. A concert hall, a football field, restaurants and other locations where people gathered in large numbers were scenes of destruction and killing as bombs and AK-47s shattered the night air in and around Paris.

In the aftermath of these gruesome events, what are we left with? Anger, hate, feelings of revenge and retribution for some; perhaps a sense of satisfaction or triumph for others. Where will that take us? Where will those feelings leave us?

Sadly, those responses will only breed more of the same. We may not, as individuals, be able to effect change on a large scale, but we can, as individuals, at least begin to effect change within ourselves and those around us.

It can start with forgiveness, forgiveness of ourselves and forgiveness of others. And it can come through a moment of quiet reflection, a kind gesture, a smile. Perhaps even a word or two of understanding. That may not seem like much, but we have to start somewhere.