Jack Dixon: An open letter to the family

Welcome Bay man Aaron Hopping organised last week's candle light vigils for five-year-old Jack Dixon and penned an open letter to the boy's family. Read it below:

Dearest Dixons;

I can only imagine what you have been through this past week. It is a tragedy that has taken a toll on the community and myself, as well as you as a family. But of course we cannot feel the amount of pain you're experiencing.

As a long term local of Tauranga (12 years) I have spent many of my days at the Mount, and what a beautiful place it has been. As a young fellow I used to play in the same area as we Jack did. Water always kind, but at the same time frightening. I've never been a big fan of the water myself, unlike Jack who clearly loved the outdoors. When I heard the news I was absolutely shocked. And as the day went on, I became weaker and weaker. Thoughts and vibes were felt and shared throughout the area.

Sundown was approaching, and all I could think of was "how can I help", what could I do to show my support? 7.20pm, ten minutes before sunset; I'm on Facebook and someone is wanting to help search with the police, but urged to stay away. "I wanted to take a candle to the beach but I couldn't make it" someone said, then the idea struck me.....

"CANDLES 7.30 ON WARDS EVERYBODY.
Go to warehouse and buy the cheapest ones with a box of matches.

SPREAD THE WORD. CANDLES FROM 7.30!!!!

Please show your support by shedding light down at mount main beach from 7.30 onwards!"

I had organised a candle light event/vigil, which sadly I could not attend on the Wednesday night. Within minutes the community reacted and gathered at request. Photos were posted, messages were sent out.

Thursday night, I'm there from 2pm - 10.30pm. Met everyone and the turnout was just completely overwhelming. It brought joy to my eyes, which was soon over powered with sadness. In my heart I knew that Jack, and the family, would be absolutely honoured with the efforts.

As family members approached (the girls) I could only stand there in silence, praying, as tears were shed in front of me. I look down onto my burnout candles and relight them with a sparkler. 'I will not give up' I whisper to myself, I'll do what I can to find your angel. The rain came down and wind blew a gust, but still we fought against nature and lit up the beach with hope and love.

Every day that has gone by has been hard for me, and still I can only imagine what it is you are going through. I want to say, on behalf of Tauranga, and the rest of the loving external communities; we will NOT give up on Little Man Jack. This tragedy has taken a new toll in my heart, a feeling that I have never encountered before. All the news, all the articles, all I want to do is cry.

It's Saturday evening as I write this, and I have just finished work at Countdown. A long walk home to Welcome Bay gives me the chance to search along the nearest shore line (Turret Road). I walk up and down as far as I could go before getting out to the water. Looking for signs, I could not find what I wanted. As I search a song plays on my phone "Arms of an Angel - Westlife". I cry. All I can do now is cry. I cried my way home with prayers and love being expressed in every stride I took. I look back just to make sure I didn't miss anything. I turn in sorrow.

Jack, and the rest of the Dixon family and relatives have not left the thoughts inside my head. I can't believe such an incident has occurred. The clouds are darker, the sea is colder, the sun not so bright and the city not so loud. As a future psychologist, and community worker, I will strive to achieve the answer of which everybody is asking; where is the little angel? Jack will forever be in my memory, as well as you, as his family.

I hope Jack is returned home very soon. All my love, support and prayers go out to you all, along with Jack too. Please stay strong, the community is here for you, 200% of the way. Xxx

Yours faithfully,
Aaron Hopping
Candle Light Organiser