It is so hard to believe that this amazing woman's life has ended. As an American, it seems like this type of thing doesn't have much affect upon our daily life. However, Benizer Bhutto's death has had an effect that is hard to describe - an overwhelming sadness that cannot be easily explained or shaken off.

I was born the year President Kennedy was shot. My parents describe the mood of the country at that time as shocked: collectively all felt the death of a dream as well as the death of possibility. While Benizer Bhutto's death is not exactly the same situation - certainly not for Americans - it does have a similar footprint on a global scale.

From that global perspective I sense a similar reaction from the peoples of the world. It seems her death has ended what could be described as dreams of tolerance in a very unsettled part of the world, that there is little possibility to have a positive outcome and future for the Pakistani people as a result of the loss of a strong voice for change and democracy.

My thoughts are with those that share out Earth in their time of confusion and frustration. May good be found and honored while the perpetrators of fear and hatred rooted out. In the end, we are all in this life together and share more in common that what separates us. Let us hope that the majority see the need for tolerance and work together toward a brighter day for our children and our world.