It’s been almost 10 months since I realized for myself that life can change in an instant. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t completely distraught over hearing the news of Kobe Bryant and his 13 year old daughter, Gianna.
When I first heard the news, it wasn’t reported that his daughter was on board as well so I couldn’t help but feel heartbroken for Vanessa & the girls. Then when I heard about their daughter – I lost it.
As a parent the most unimaginable pain and biggest nightmare is losing a child. But to lose your husband (of 20 years 😓) AND your child in the same day is just unfathomable and simply put – unfair. I would NOT have survived those days and weeks following the loss of my son if I didn’t have my husband with me to carry the weight alongside me.
I will not say “I can’t imagine what she is going through†because after hearing it myself, I know that it’s not helpful. Instead, we can take it a step further and try to imagine it. We can put ourselves in Vanessa’s shoes and try to imagine the deep grief and pain that her and all the families who lost loved ones yesterday (or ever) are experiencing. We can try to put ourselves in their place, then live in a way that expresses how truly grateful we are to be alive today. I think it’s easy for us to forget (especially if you have never experienced a life shattering event) but tomorrow isn’t promised to anyone. Death doesn’t discriminate. If anything “good†can come from this tragedy, I pray we can view this as a wake up call to treat today like it really is.. a gift. May God be with Vanessa and all those mourning. Rest in heaven Kobe, Gianna and 7 others who perished in Sunday’s helicopter crash.
