All Things New

There are some things that I shouldn’t have to witness at the age of 31. Watching my brother bury his best friend at the age of 31 is one those things.

Choices.

We all are given the freedom to make good choices or bad ones and those choices, unfortunately, not only effect that person, but those who love and care for the one making the choices.

While the details of the accident are still being investigated, Mark was hit crossing a street, after having jumped out of the bed of his brother’s pick-up in an attempt to beat him and his friends home. He never made it home. The whole family, including friends, had gathered for his brother’s engagement party that evening. And this was how the night ended. Tragedy. Many unanswered questions. The driver involved did not remain at the scene and has yet to be found.

The funeral while uplifting, was emotional and moving. I had the unique experience to sit behind all the pallbearers, who had all served in some form or fashion in the US Military. These men were not only friends of Mark, but also considered brothers. Men who normally stand tall and proud to defend freedom for us all, stood amongst those in the audience mourning and grieving the loss of man, friend and brother who cared and loved so many. It’s an emotional sight to see strong men weep. And sitting there, watching them, watching the family, watching his wife of 4 years, it makes you wish you could turn back the hands of time to change that one choice. It’s heartbreaking. It’s sad. It’s just plain unfair. And there is nothing anyone can do to fix or change.

Choices. Growing up, every time my brother and I would leave the house, we’d hear my mom say, “Make good choices.”

I clearly see why now. A wife without her husband. A mother/father are now without a son. A brother without his only brother. And a best friend is now without his best friend.

“Make good choices.”