There are times when I’m reminded how fragile life really is. The idea of my life and the lives of those around me being a vapor – here today, with the very real possibility of them being gone tomorrow – reminds me to appreciate every minute of life I have. There have been many sorrows and deaths, and even a few escaped tragedies recently. They’ve all made me think. One  tragedy escaped was when my sister was in a really scary car wreck a few weeks back. She somehow walked away from her totaled SUV unscathed. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to drive past the spot of her car wreck without thanking God for his mercy.
Within a few days of my sister’s wreck, a friend of mine, a girl my age, was diagnosed with leukemia. That song lyric, “live like you were dying” came to mind, but it didn’t even seem to touch the reality my friend faces, being forced to live with the possibility of dying.
We’ve experienced losses in the agriculture community recently, with the tragic death of Edward Kropf. My heart and prayers go out to Edwin, Edward’s twin brother, and to Edward’s wife and family. I can’t imagine what they’re going through, but I know theirs is a community of faith, and they will be strengthened by that faith during this time.
Sadness, tragedy, accidents, sickness – these are all part of life. I’m young, and I don’t even want to pretend to know the sorrows life can bring. It seems to me all we can do is live each day to the fullest, have a thankful heart and draw those we love close to us. Faith, family, friends – that’s what matters. Join me in praying and thinking of those we know who have recently lost someone they love, or who is facing illness or injury. Pull those you love around you today. And please, cherish the life you have. God Bless,