Forever Changed In An Instant

The news story about a deputy constable that died from injuries he suffered when a vehicle struck him as he wrote a traffic ticket is not an easy one to read. The Police believe the driver of the SUV was distracted, possibly by talking on a cell phone, when his vehicle struck the deputy. The story has stirred up a lot of conversation where I work. Some of us know the man who hit the deputy because we worked with him at former employer. I only knew him enough to say hello in the hallway. Everyone I talk to says he is a good man - good husband, father, provider, devoted to his church.

Why is this story making such a difference to me? I have no idea what was going on at the time when the car of the man I know struck the deputy. I only know it could have been me. I talk on my cell phone when I drive all the time. I am too embarrassed to tell you all the other multi-tasking things I do when I drive. Why do I do it? Is it because I am that important, that busy, that involved? No, I do it because I just don't stay present. As if there is any other dimension but the present to really live in!

If anyone would have told me eighteen years ago when I got sober that learning to become present, staying present, and taking care of myself emotionally, spiritually and physically would be so mind boggling I would have laughed. I probably did.

My heart breaks for everyone involved. The lives of two families forever changed in an instant.

All we have is today. All we have is this moment. What am I doing with my moments?