Photos: "I want America to be as good as she imagined it." (The Obama Presidency, Day 723)

[Clio the Leo]

If this tragedy prompts reflection and debate -- as it should -- let’s make sure it’s worthy of those we have lost. Let’s make sure it’s not on the usual plane of politics and point-scoring and pettiness that drifts away in the next news cycle.

The loss of these wonderful people should make every one of us strive to be better. To be better in our private lives, to be better friends and neighbors and coworkers and parents. And if, as has been discussed in recent days, their death helps usher in more civility in our public discourse, let us remember it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy -- it did not -- but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to the challenges of our nation in a way that would make them proud.

Security personnel keep vigil as US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama disembark from Air Force One as they arrive at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona, on January 12, 2011 to attend the memorial event Together We Thrive: Tucson and America at the University of Arizona Tucson to support and remember victims of the mass shooting in Tucson. The First Couple will attend a tribute service for the six people who were killed and the 14 wounded in the assassination attempt on congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who is fighting for her life in a hospital.


People wait in line for a memorial service honoring Saturday's shooting victims


U.S. President Barack Obama (C) pats Daniel Hernandez, the 20-year-old intern credited with likely saving the life of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords,










"Gabby Opened Her Eyes For The First Time"












T-shirts are placed on chairs for a memorial service for victims of the January 8 shooting

[onehandle]

1. Nice.

[wildflower]

2. You can see Michelle's caring in her face

It's quite extraordinary.

[1stlady]

3. Christina was so beautiful

Every time I see her face, I get teary eyed.

[kwolf68]

5. Me too

I have an 8 year daughter and she is everything to me. Christina's family is so much in my heart. Seeing Dallas Green say, "my princess is gone" can't help but put a thump in your chest.

[Nordmadr]

6. Me too. I know there is so much tragedy in the world, but damn

I wish I could bring this little girl back.

[lunatica]

4. Thank you.