Erika Kirk Reveals Major Change That Could Impact Millions — And Opens Up About Her Family’s Tragedy
In a heartfelt discussion on The Five, Erika Kirk shared insights about her late husband, Charlie Kirk, and his mission to promote the practice of honoring the Sabbath. His final book, Stop in the Name of God: Why Honoring the Sabbath Will Transform Your Life, was released shortly before his tragic assassination. In this book, Charlie emphasized the importance of disconnecting from technology for one day each week to reconnect with family, faith, and oneself.
The Importance of Disconnecting
During the segment, Erika recounted Charlie’s passionate belief in taking a break from the digital noise of everyday life. He encouraged people to turn off their phones, avoid social media, and refrain from work to focus on their mental health and spiritual well-being. “This day is meant to be with God, to read your Bible, and to escape the busyness and anger of the world,” she recalled him saying.
Erika explained that this practice was not just beneficial for individuals but had the potential to transform families. Charlie recognized that it transcended political divides and demographic differences, serving as a bridge between generations. “He knew how this could impact families, filling the gaps between grandparents and grandchildren,” she noted.
A Day of Reflection and Connection
Reflecting on what Sabbath days looked like in their household, Erika described them as “precious” and “priceless.” She shared how those days allowed Charlie to be fully present with their children, free from the pressures of his public persona. “I saw a side of my husband that the world never got to see,” she said, highlighting the significance of these moments for their family.
On those days, Charlie would stretch, reflect, and read, allowing himself to reset and recharge. Erika emphasized that this practice fostered authentic communication within their family, contrasting it with the often distracted conversations that occur when screens are present. “When you’re at the dinner table and someone is on their phone, they’re physically there but not mentally present,” she pointed out, advocating for more genuine interactions.
Navigating Life After Tragedy
In the wake of Charlie’s tragic death, Erika has been navigating a new reality while holding onto the values he instilled in their family. She expressed that despite the whirlwind of events following his assassination, she remains committed to maintaining the routines that Charlie valued. “I’m now at a stage where I have to relearn my life,” she admitted, emphasizing the importance of family and the leadership team at Turning Point USA, which Charlie had carefully assembled.
Erika described her colleagues as family, stating, “They are not just employees; they are mission-driven individuals who understand the heart and soul of what Charlie started.” She acknowledged that the organization is as vital to her as it is to the country, reinforcing the idea that Charlie’s legacy continues through their collective efforts.
The Power of Forgiveness
One of the most profound moments in the interview came when Erika discussed her decision to forgive Tyler Robinson, the alleged murderer of Charlie Kirk. “That was something I heavily prayed on,” she explained, reflecting on the strength it took to let go of hate. She articulated the consuming nature of anger, stating that it can tear a person apart and hinder one’s ability to heal. “If I had any ounce of hate in my heart, the Lord would not be able to use me,” she said.
Erika emphasized that forgiveness does not mean forgetting but rather choosing to release the burden of anger. “It’s a strength to know that I am surrendering this to God,” she said, highlighting the importance of faith in her healing process. “Your life might be the only Bible someone reads, so be authentic with it,” she encouraged, urging others to live their faith openly.
A Call to Action
As the conversation drew to a close, Erika reflected on Charlie’s message about the Sabbath. She quoted him, saying, “The Sabbath is not a burden to bear; it’s a grace to embrace.” She urged viewers to make adjustments in their lives instead of excuses, emphasizing that if Charlie could carve out time for the Sabbath amidst his busy life, so could anyone else.
In a world filled with distractions and demands, Erika Kirk’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of taking time to reconnect with what truly matters—faith, family, and community. As she continues to honor Charlie’s legacy, her story resonates with many, encouraging individuals to embrace the grace of the Sabbath and transform their lives for the better.
