"Can I see another's woe, and not be in sorrow too?
Can I see another's grief, and not seek for kind relief? - William Blake

Today was the funeral of Nicola Cotton, a 24-year-old police officer from the Sixth District who was killed just days ago when she approached a man to question him. She was two months pregnant.

I had never in real life seen a police procession. It was moving and amazing and so very sad. You hear so many things about police officers, both good and bad. You hear in this city about the corruption and racism, but this was above all of that. This was about honoring one of their own for her dedication and service. This was about pride and respect.

Nicola was an officer here in Central City. She was friends with Michael and Melashaun Franklin and Robin Turner, all of Castle Rock Community Church. She attended our college Bible study several years ago. According to friends and relatives she wanted to help people. My heart aches for her family and prays that they will find comfort in the arms of the Father.