Kip’s Comments - November 18, 2024

Nov 18

Trying To Understand, Trying to Reason

Before I retired (early) from Emergency Management, I was considered one of the “senior” coordinators. There were a handful of us “old-timers” who had been around a while, but there were also many younger coordinators full of energy and new ideas. Some of the youngsters were fresh out of college or the military and ready to tackle what the world would throw at them. Their young blood was good for the mission.

One of those coordinators was a young woman who, at one of our meetings announced her 21st birthday. If I am remembering the details correctly, that would make her 24 or 25 now.

Since meeting this young lady she has found the man of her dreams. In fact, there was a meeting when she was explaining having set a wedding date while her future husband had not even popped the question. Several of us tossed pressure his way to “ask her to marry you!” (He had to ask her - she had a wedding date set!)

The young couple married and were living a happy life. Recently a little baby boy was born to make the couple a family.

Just days after the baby boy’s birth the couple received devastating news - he had cancer - and it was an aggressive form of cancer.

Today his cancer journey ended. His struggles are over. His pain is no more. For her, she is a newlywed, a mother to an infant, and a young widow. How can this be? Why??

My heart is so heavy today as thoughts of what has happened go through my head. I have no certain answers to the endless questions I and so many have. Maybe this will never make sense. Maybe time will help with understanding. Perhaps a day will come when the reason is clear. For now that is not happening. Why… why him. Why at such a young age with a new bride and a new baby? Why?

If today has done anything positive for me, these events have reminded me again to make the best of everyday. Live each day to the fullest. Make sure those close to you know how you feel. Tomorrow is not promised. Somehow, be thankful - even on days like today.

The picture is from my walk in the woods today, in the rain. Time in nature usually clears my head… not so today. The raindrops on the pine needles were the bright spots for the hike/day. I just don’t understand why.