I was recently reminded how quickly life can change directions. In a split second everything that seems to matter so much becomes unimportant. The shopping list, the holiday project, having that cute handbag, decorating, school, disappointments, an argument, traffic, the gym, that mean person that you wish you could avoid…… all of these things that are in your head don’t mean anything at all when your life or the life of a loved one is in jeopardy.
Last weekend, as I was turning into the driveway of where I live, I heard a huge BOOM! As I looked into my rear view mirror, I saw the underbelly of a car flying into the air, come down, bounce, and then begin to skid on it’s side for about 30 or so feet. I immediately parked my car and got out to see if I could help. I noticed that the driver of the other vehicle had already gotten out of his car and was on the phone with emergency personnel. I decided to look into the car still on it’s side (driver’s side) to see how bad it was. There was a woman, her body crumpled, still in her seat but also leaning against the window. She was quiet and still. My heart physically hurt for her. She began to wail and it was horrific to listen to. She wasn’t coherent. People had started to gather by this time but ambulances and police hadn’t arrived yet. We tried speaking to the lady, telling her she had been in an accident and help was on the way. I really don’t think she understood. I eventually left the scene, knowing that since I hadn’t witnessed the actual accident and I wasn’t able to give medical assistance that I would only be in the way of emergency crews. I could hear the sirens getting closer and I knew that they would do all they could for this lady. I said a prayer for all involved before I drove away.
As I climbed back in my car, I realized that if I had been a split second slower getting home, it would have been me in that accident. I thought about all the things that have been on my mind lately and realized that NONE of them would have mattered if I were the one stuck in that wrecked car laying on it’s side.
I know it’s not practical to live everyday like it could be your last. After all, we do have responsibilities to take care of. We have purpose to our lives. But, we should not let life get in the way of living. Every chance you get, share your gifts and blessings, pray for others, be kind, be grateful, forgive, give hugs, compliment others, slow down, laugh, spend time with family and friends, tell the people who matter to you that you love them and be thankful for every second that you are able to enjoy life.
“While we have the gift of life, it seems to me the only tragedy is to allow part of us to die – whether it is our spirit, our creativity, or our glorious uniqueness.” – Gilda Radner
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