Residents Call for Lights Out in Support of Conn. Shooting Victims and Families

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of 'disaster,' I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers - so many caring people in this world." -- Mister Rogers

We can't reach out to hug or to cry alongside the families in who have experienced such loss after Friday's tragic shootings, but some Bay Area residents are suggesting that there is something we can do as a community to send a message of solidarity in this sad time: turn off your holiday lights.

There is growing support for the "lights out" idea, including state Assemblyman Rich Gordon, who has endorsed the gesture.

Here are some Facebook and Twitter Postings about the "light's out" campaign:

"There's not a parent in America today who doesn't feel as I do--overwhelmed by grief. Turn off the holiday lights." #CTshooting #brokenhearts

From Sharron on the San Carlos Patch Facebook page: "My cousin posted a very good suggestion. A nationwide blackout of all Christmas lights tonight to show sympathy for those in CT whose holidays & lives have been shattered. Would you be willing to post this idea? So many families in San Carlos have small children. I think a lot of people would be willing to do this. I thought it was a lovely idea and the least we could do."

What do you think? Will you turn off your lights tonight? Tell us in the comment section below.