As the year comes to a close, we hear of tragedy from the skies. The world has been reminded of its vulnerability by two recent plane crashes, one in Azerbaijan and another in South Korea, which have devastated families and shocked communities. The timing of these events, just days before the new year, makes them seem more poignant, as if the universe is trying to prove how fragile our existence is.
I think about the people on the plane that crashed in Muan County, South Korea. As they board the plane, the passengers likely feel a mixture of excitement and confidence that they will arrive at their destination in complete safety. Many of the passengers were returning from their year-end vacation in Bangkok, Thailand. They had no idea those were the last moments of their lives.
Then there's the Azerbaijan crash, which matches the heartbreaking tragedy of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, which was shot down by a missile over Ukraine in 2014. Unfortunately, planes, which are symbols of connection, are becoming victims of war and are susceptible to the violence that our broken world brings. These tragedies demonstrate how fragile human progress can be.
In times like these, it's common to feel powerless. The sky, which once inspired awe, now appears heavy with grief. Families left behind are dealing with anguish that no words or gestures can truly console. They must face the awful burden of unanswered questions: "Why did this happen?" “Could we have prevented it?” These relentless and brutal questions leave scars that time cannot erase.
As I ponder these tragedies, I find myself drawn back to the idea of connection. Each passenger had a story, a purpose, and a life that inspired others. Their deaths have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only their families but entire communities, as well as those of us who read the news from a distance. In today's interconnected world, grieving becomes a shared pain that spans distance and culture.
Still, there is something deeply human about this shared grief. It reminds us of our vulnerabilities, but also of our ability to empathize. Such tragedies force us to look within and question how we live. Are we too preoccupied with our daily lives to take a moment to appreciate those around us? Are we aware of life's fragility, or do we only recall it when faced with sorrow?
The timing of these disasters, right before the New Year, seems particularly cruel. This is a time when we reflect on renewal and hope. Time has stood still for the families of those who died. Their calendars will bear a permanent mark from this disaster. It's a sobering reminder that, while the New Year brings hope to some, it also brings sadness to others.
In spite of the sadness, though, I am reminded of how important it is to remember the people we have lost. It means living in a way that appreciates the value of each moment. It includes reaching out to those we care about, forgiving where possible, and finding beauty in the simplest things in life. These are the things that keep us grounded and make life worthwhile.
After such tragedies, it's easy to focus on grief, but we must also consider resilience. Families will grieve, but they will also remember, rebuild, and carry on the legacy of people they have lost. Communities will join together to offer support and comfort. These actions of compassion and solidarity, however quiet, are effective. They serve as a reminder that we can discover light even in the darkest times.
As I sit here, contemplating the fragile nature of life, I am reminded of how easily with which we take for granted the safety of a routine flight, the presence of loved ones, and the certainty of another day. These tragedies prompt me to question my life's purpose. Do I live in accordance with my most important values? Am I expressing my appreciation for the people and experiences that have enriched my life?
The New Year will arrive, as it always does, bringing a mix of hope and anxiety. But this year, I want to maintain a quiet resolve: to live more mindfully, to hold my loved ones close, and to cherish each moment with tenderness and care.
Happy New Year 2025 and may you have a blessed year ahead 🎉🎇🥂🍺🍻
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