From the outside, it's a typical day in Maine with the colors of fall fully drenching the parks and the sun beaming off the water, but for people here in Lewiston, Oct. 25 is marked by tragedy. It's been one year since 18 lives were lost in a mass shooting and a community changed forever.
"It's been one year since the thread was ripped from the fabric of our lives. It's been one year since the families of the 18 people killed that night, will never get to hug, talk to or spend time with their loved ones," Joanna Stokinger, lead advocate at the Maine Resiliency Center, said.
To mark an auspicious anniversary, family members, friends and survivors gathered to remember and mourn together.
"How do I know that we won't totally unravel, that we won't succumb to the trauma and pain that was pressed upon us a year ago?" Stokinger said. "I know because I have had 364 days of seeing people heal, of watching survivors serving others, of witnessing friendships from and chosen family be built well."
Eighteen chairs sat empty at the front of the stage, each with a candle and flowers. The names of the 18 mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, grandparents, friends and neighbors were read aloud.
"I know because I've witness people who would never interact with eachother 366 days ago who now lean on a support each other without fail," Stokinger added.
During perhaps the most poignant minutes of the ceremony, no words were spoken. A moment of silence was observed at the exact time the shootings happened at the two locations 6:56 p.m. and 7:08 p.m.
"I know because I've seen people reach out for help, even though it is a hard, scary thing to do," Stokinger said.
Amidst the tears and the sadness, a message of hope and resilience.
"I know because I've watch children bowl and laugh again," Stokinger said.
And a sentiment of healing.
"A prayer for moments of joy without guilt, a prayer for moving forward and always remembering the people that we love that are not here. Honoring their memories, and honoring where we are in the healing process in each moment," Regina Schulman, Maine Resiliency Center, said.
And the final song that played on the day, the message was strong. It’s not okay, but we’re all going to be alright.