Sometimes you
get news that throws you for a loop.
There's a
wonderful family restaurant located less than five minutes from my house. I've
gone there around a half dozen times per year ever since I moved into my
current residence 11+ years ago.
At some point
several years after I became a patron I met a young man who worked there. He
was a host and would best be described as a kind, gentle soul. He was always
friendly and we'd make small talk on occasion. He had a soft voice and a kind,
genuine smile. I enjoyed our chats and admired his demeanor.
Earlier this
week I had a repairman out fixing my stove. Our conversation veered off from
the repair job to his dinner plans for the evening once the job at my house was
complete. He shared that he was headed over to that very restaurant by my house
and I immediately commented on how struck I was by the kindness and soft
spoken, gentle nature of the young man who works as a host there on occasion.
After I
mentioned this, the repairman paused for a minute and then asked for some
further description of the individual I had just mentioned. Soon thereafter, he
paused again and then said, 'He's not with us anymore.'
He shared
that the young man was over in Europe a few months ago and that he was killed
in a motorcycle accident while there. I felt the breath leap out of my lungs when I heard
these words. I was speechless. I was in shock. I think I still am.
I've learned
his name since I became aware of his passing. Betim looked to be in his early
to mid 20's to me. Such a young life taken so early, cheated out of another 50+
years of living.
I didn't know
Betim that well at all. His father is the owner of the restaurant and I've only
had brief conversations with him as well. Yet, for some reason this news has
shaken me. I try not to think about the incomprehensible sadness and loss his
father, family, and friends must be feeling, but I fail. This morning during my
elliptical workout I had time to do nothing but think, and at some point in
those 45 minutes I found myself with tears streaming down my cheeks, feeling
such sadness for his loved ones.
I've learned
from past experience not to ask 'Why?' when it comes to death. I don't get
anywhere with that question, so I don't ask it anymore. I do have a faith that
I carry in good times and bad. It helps, but the sadness remains.
Earlier this
month I watched a clip that I had seen dozens of times before. It was from the
movie, 'Dead Poets Society' and the line that sticks with me every time I view
it on youtube is 'Carpe diem. Seize the day.'
Seize the
day. Betim certainly gave me the impression that he did just that during his
far too short time on this Earth.
I only wish he was given more sunrises to
seize.
