Like many in the United States, we at the Monitor are focusing our thoughts on Parkland, Fla., today.

Some of the most heart-wrenching details coming out of Parkland are the text messages exchanged between students and their parents. In these fragmented text exchanges, students found a bit of comfort amid chaos, and parents saw glimpses of reassurance and hope.

As a society, we have spent a lot of time in recent months discussing the negative effects of cellphone use among teens and adults. We are seeing plenty of signs that being constantly tethered to our phones carries consequences. But in those terrifying moments yesterday, these devices offered students and families an invaluable connection to each other.

There is evidence that cellphones have become lifelines for people in need in many ways.

During the spate of natural disasters this past year, for instance, a smartphone app helped mobilize volunteer rescuers with the Cajun Navy. And for all of the pitfalls of social media, forums like Facebook have also given voice to people who struggle with social anxiety.

These instances serve as a reminder that, when used thoughtfully, technology can bring out the best of us – even in the worst of times.

Here are our five stories for today, highlighting the human toll of policy decisions, the quest for a better form of justice, and cultural reflections of societal shifts.