A lesson

I wasn't going to write about the bridge collapse. I mean, besides acknowledging what a truly tragic event it is, what more is there to be said?

Then I saw these pictures. Then I was forced to think. A question came to my head: What are the most important things in life? To me, it is not the material items we get and give; although, I love to give and see people smile. And, obviously, some material items are necessities. But, in these pictures I saw a mom holding a very small and defenseless baby. I saw someone cherishing another human being in both pictures.

I think we need to learn from tragic events. I know I'm stating the obvious, but massive events should get the attention of our priorities.

Is life all about what others can do for us? Is life all about making other people how we think they should be? No.

Looking at the pictures reminds me that life is about loving others, as they are, for who they are. Life is about allowing a person you care about to be free to be himself or herself, loving them unconditionally. Imagine how the family members of those who survived felt when they got the news their loved ones had lived. Do you think they remembered the stupid argument from that morning? Do you think they thought about what failings that person might have? I don't think so.

Now, imagine the scenario without the happy ending. Imagine your last words to someone are cross, critical, and that you've made realtionships all about you. Do you want that to be what's remembered about you?

The lesson I learned from yesterday's events are things I've believed for a long time, but have forgotten at times: Treat others well, it's not all about you, let it go--it won't matter in ten years (maybe even hours from now), and love without the thought of what you're getting out of the deal--sometimes others and their feelings are more important than your feelings and ego.