How Would You Feel?

Something like a million kids in the world have lost one of their parents. A million more have probably come close.

I've never experienced anything like they have. Sure, I've had the worries about my mom when she's travelling alone, and the fears that my dad will die in a car accident while away on a business trip--but nothing solid. Nothing real.

The monday of this week, a teenager on my block lost his mom. He's named Dan. I haven't ever been real friends with Dan, or Danny as we used to call him. Our hanging out was just in a group of neighborhood kids where we'd play games like "Capture the Flag", "Around the House", and "Seven Steps". My family was never very close to his family. Tonight, though, we attended the wake for his mom because they are our neighbors.

Realization of how fragile life is hit me square in the face. You really don't realize it--the fact that every breath is so extremely special (if you do, I applaud you). The fact that you take life for granted every day, as its so normal.

I cannot imagine how Dan is feeling. Of course, I can remember some times, like when I lost my grandpa, that I felt extremely sad, but I'm sure that it doesn't compare. How must that feel--to lose your mom when you've only had her for eighteen years?

It just makes me value the family I have and the life I've got. I'm sure to forget, but for now I'm going to put every effort into appreciating how special and beautiful life is. My life, your life, any life. Human life in particular.

If you could pray for Dan, I would really appreciate it.

-Tina