One Stunning Photo Of Brussels In Mourning

Following the tragic terrorist attacks in Brussels which claimed the lives of dozens and injured hundreds more, memorials have been appearing across the world to commemorate those affected by the incident. Germany's Brandenberg Gate has been lit up to reflect the colors of the Belgian flag, as have similarly iconic structures, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Dubai's Burj Khalifa. The images of solidarity are a small comfort in a time of incredible loss for the citizens of Brussels. Powerful images have emerged from vigils and memorials across the city. One stunning photo of Brussels mourning sticks out in particular, however.

The photo of a mother kneeling behind her daughter as she places candles on the ground near the Beursplein illustrates just how far-reaching such a tragedy is. Attacks that resonate across the globe, such as the series of explosions in Brussels, affect both young and old. The Belgian woman in this photo is now faced with the harsh reality of potentially feeling unsafe in her home city while facing the monumental task of alleviating her young daughter's similar concerns. It's certainly not as if she could ignore the incident. Images of the memorial, which appeared a mere mile and a half from Maelbeek Station, where one explosion occurred, have been inescapable since its initial creation on Tuesday.

Many children have taken to the makeshift chalk memorial and candlelight vigil created outside the Beursplein building, offering messages of encouragement and lighting candles alongside adults similarly searching for answers and comfort in the wake of this senseless tragedy. Allowing children to participate in such commemorative events may be helpful in explaining what occurred. Childhood bereavement expert Di Stubbs spoke with the U.K's Express newspaper, offering advice on how best to approach discussing the Brussels attacks. Stubbs explained that honesty is the best policy, as is attempting to make a distinction "between bad acts and bad people." She continued:

When high profile events such as this happen, young people may temporarily lose their sense of security. Children who are concerned will appreciate a lot of reassurance and maybe more hugs than usual. Keeping a reasonably normal routine going will help them feel secure.

Incidents similar to the Brussels attacks sadly appear to be all the more commonplace. An uptick in terrorist threats certainly doesn't mean the world should grow numb to such tragedies. Photos from memorials stand as important markers of solidarity as people from all walks of life — no matter how young or how old — come together to mourn, heal, and take action in the face of immense loss.