life is fickle

• Merriam-Webster definition:   
  
  

Definition of fickle
: marked by lack of steadfastness, constancy, or stability: given to erratic changeableness
 
Three days ago I received an email from one of my long time friends and writing instructor she had received an email from another mutual friend.  My dear friend and author Marshall Cook and his wife Ellen were driving to the State of Washington for a vacation to visit family.  Somewhere in South Dakota they were involved in a terrifying car accident.  Ellen received face lacerations and may need eye surgery.  Marshall has several broken ribs and was unconscious when taken to the hospital.

When events like these occur I don’t find myself asking how it happened.  It doesn’t matter how it happened, the outcome is the same.  I don’t know how this will affect their health and lives but it is tragic.

The truth is when you get up in the morning you have no idea if you will be able to lay your head down safely in your own bed at night.  When I was younger I would respond with anger to events like this.  I don’t know why.  I am now beyond the age of anger.

My feeling now is more of awe.  In an instant an event could change your life and completely alter the ability to carry on as you have to this point in your life.
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Knowing this to be a truth alters how I live each and every day.