Thursday, June 28, 2007

An Unfinished Life

Yesterday morning what appeared to be a young man apparently jumped to his death from the building across the street from my office and outside my window. I did not see him do it but I did see his broken body on the ground as EMT personnel attempted to save him. I did not know this young man nor why he was driven to do such a thing. In my helplessness I did all I knew how to do. I bowed my head and prayed a silent prayer for him. I thought about him all day long as well as those who loved him and the sadness they must be feeling. This tragedy reminded me how precious and fragile life can be. I do not understand suicide. It is difficult for me to understand why some people feel that life is so bleak that suicide is the only answer. I believe there is always hope and no situation is beyond redemption. The good fortunes of our lives can change quickly. We all sometimes experience the misfortunes of life. None of us can avoid disappointment or heartache. In spite of this, there is always hope. Sometimes in life you must simply live through your pain and hang on. Hope and love are transforming and can turn around the most desperate situations. I don't pretend to understand the pain of others and although I have experienced sadness and worry, I have never been close to despair on a personal level. I do, however, understand the value of life. This young man, as well as his family, will be in my prayers and thoughts for a while.

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