I worked in Baghdad (development aid worker) for a few years, and these sorts of bombings with high death tolls were relatively commonplace. By the time I left, they were increasingly rare, and I truly believe as I boarded my last flight out of Iraq that things were on the upswing. My then-boyfriend (now husband) and…

I think not knowing their names and stories is part of a larger issue. I remember after Paris reading the stories about so many of those who died - now after Orlando celebrities are reading out everyone’s name, videos are shown on various news outlets, interviews with family members. It makes it more real and personal…