I’m sure many of you are aware of the catastrophic mudslide that has occurred in our state of Washington. When all is said and done, more than one hundred lives are certain to be lost.

Meanwhile, recent news has also covered the mysterious disappearance of a Malaysian airliner with more than two hundred passengers on board.

What these two events have in common is the horrific effect upon those whose loved ones are gone forever, and the untimely manner in which their deaths have occurred. 

All of us are in the midst of personal turmoil. No one is exempt from the daily push and pull of life. There’s no permanent state of emotional and physical well-being. Maintaining a balance takes continuing energy and effort.

My daughter’s ongoing hunt for a new job in contemporary dance is our family’s focus at the moment. Of course we go about the business of daily living, but my thoughts are never far from her happiness.

I’m no different from other parents who want the best for their children. It’s often the case that we will forgo our own wants and needs, if only theirs would be fulfilled. 

Stepping back from the edge of my life…I see that others no longer have their loved ones with them. An unimaginable thought…to be without those who give me love and support all the days of my life. 

Without our loved ones…where are we? Picking up the pieces of our shattered lives. Which is exactly what the families of both catastrophes are attempting to do with all the courage they can muster.

Then there’s my brother’s family who is bracing themselves for what seems inevitable. With hospice on the scene it’s almost certain that God will be calling a beloved son home. 

Lives lost effects permanent change. Something to ponder when dealing with changes to the backdrop against which we all live our lives. Somehow the difference brings life into perspective.

My loved ones are still with me…

…thank you, God.

…except for mom…my beloved mother-in-law…keeping watch from above…

………hugmamma.