Erika Kirk, widow of the late Charlie Kirk, delivered a powerful holiday message marking her first Christmas without her husband.
Charlie, founder of Turning Point USA, died in a fatal shooting on September 10 during an incident at a college campus in Utah.
In her emotional video message, Erika shared what she believes would have been a joint message from both of them, had he survived.
Erika Kirk's Christmas Message
"This holiday season, my prayer for you is to, honestly, just rest," Erika said, echoing what she felt would have been her husband's words, per the Mirror.
"That would be my husband's message as well."
Reflecting on the hectic nature of the holidays, she emphasized the importance of finding peace and solace during a time often filled with "a lot of noise."
With the demands and distractions of the season, Erika encouraged her audience to take time for themselves and cherish their families.
"But, I just pray that you find some alone time with the Lord and your family," she said.
"Love on your babies, love on your family members. Life is short."
Despite the heartfelt nature of Erika’s message, her video did not escape criticism.
Some detractors accused her of exploiting her husband's death, pointing out that she was holding his posthumous book, Stop in the Name of God, throughout the entire video.
Support for Erika Amid Backlash
However, many fans rushed to Erika’s defense.
"Erika Kirk reminding everyone to love family this holiday after losing Charlie proves life ends fast for anyone," one supporter remarked.
"Young leaders gone too soon expose how fragile power and plans really are. Cherish yours now."
Erika Kirk's Powerful Message of Forgiveness
In addition to her holiday message, Erika Kirk recently opened up about the profound strength she has found through her faith, motherhood, and the power of forgiveness.
Speaking in an emotional interview with Megyn Kelly, Erika shared her thoughts on life after her husband's shocking death and the path she has chosen in the aftermath of tragedy.
When asked what she would say to Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing Charlie, Erika responded with surprising calm and conviction.
"It wouldn't be sympathy. It wouldn't be anger… Anything I could ever wish upon him or his family would pale in comparison to the justice of God. So I look at them and think, 'I'm so glad I'm not you,'" she said, offering a powerful statement of forgiveness rather than revenge.
Erika's words speak to her unwavering belief in divine justice and the strength that comes from choosing forgiveness over hatred. "The enemy would love for me to be angry," Erika explained. "He would love it."