As I sat and pondered over the disbelief of something like this, I was reminded that life is precious and should not be taken for granted. Each day, we place ourselves in a situations of which we have no control and of which we do. Truth be told, I know God is really in control, but let's me think that I am running the show! I can admit that while driving, I use the phone and send texts and emails. Though I graduated from the Brenda Gail School of Driving (thanks MOM!) and grew up on the streets of Atlanta, I feel as if I know what I am doing. However, I know, in the back of my mind, that at any given moment and in an instance, I could lose control or cause an accident, thus I am guilty of culpable negligence. I could have easily have caused an accident of this magnitude and this troubles me. So today, I stand before you and pledge to avoid texting and emailing while driving unless I am at a stationary position.
On a related, but different note, I just want to extend a "thank you" to all of you as if you are included on this email, you have touched my life in some way. We may talk or see each other every day (even 20 times a day), twice a month, every quarter or yearly or we may not talk at all for whatever reason. However, I truly believe that people come into your life for a reason, season or time. I want to thank you for the good times, bad times and those in-between, the laughter and tears. If we fell out about something trivial, significant or time just getting away from us, I want to thank you for that, as well. I think Life lessons are gained by your moments of reflection on situations and circumstances and your ability to grow and move forward. Thus, I ultimately, even when I do not understand why, thank God for the LESSONS in the BLESSINGS! So know this, I love you and do not hold any ill-feelings toward any person. It just means that your reason, season or time has been fulfilled in my life and myself in yours.
I ask that God's grace and mercy continues to be abundant in your life, as well as mine. May we live each day to the fullest of our abilities, be cognizant of our actions and treat others as we demand they treat us. This event reminds us that life is, indeed, too short to be worried about the small stuff.
Let's collectively lift up our prayers for the extended members of the Carter and Johnson families. We all believe that Robert, Delisia, Kayla, baby Ethan and Miss Johnson (age 6) are in a better place. Let's also pray for the person who was driving the BMW. I can not imagine the torment this person must be experiencing. However, she needs to come forward to provide a small piece of closure for the families. If you know someone who drives a similar car and lives in that area, call that person and/or the police.
Related Information: http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/atlanta/stories/2009/04/12/camp_creek_parkway_crash.html?cxntlid=inform_sr
http://www.11alive.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=129155&catid=40
http://www.theeagleconnection.com/
