A week ago marked 10 years since the April 20, 1999 shootings at Columbine High School, and the anniversary hasn't gone unmarked.

In addition to all the news articles recounting the massacre and following up on survivors, journalist Dave Cullen’s recently released book, ”Columbine,” has drawn attention to myths that made their way into the media in the days and weeks following the tragedy. Reviews of the book praise it for dispelling these myths as well as for delving into the “why” of Columbine.

But as well researched and written as this book sounds to be, I’m sure there are “whys” surrounding Columbine that won’t ever be answered, at least not in this life. I remember the initial shock – and even the classroom where I was sitting, an afternoon in ninth grade – when I heard about the shootings. But it wasn’t until a few years later I read the story that came out of Columbine that still stands out most to me.

”Rachel’s Tears” – which recently was rereleased in a 10th anniversary addition – tells about Rachel Scott, the first student killed at Columbine, and includes excerpts from her journals that indicate she knew her life would be cut short and are hauntingly prophetic in other ways, as well. These, along with the way her life has touched so many others since Columbine, says to me that there really has been some good – and even a purpose God had beforehand – in this seemingly senseless tragedy.

This doesn’t take away the unanswered questions or the pain people have experienced. But Rachel’s story is one that’s powerful in the midst of them, even 10 years later.