Last night was by far the worst night I have ever experienced. My car broke down on the side of the road, and as I was getting it towed, the tow truck driver was hit by a woman who was driving erratically. It was a hit and run. (We don't know yet if she was under the influence, but she had a history of opiate use and all signs seem to be pointing that way, as she hit a parked car further down the road. She is in the hospital in critical condition, hemorrhaging from the brain. Please pray for her, that God will heal her, that He will redeem her, and use this experience to change her life for the better.)
Please let this be a reminder to drive safely, to abstain from alcohol and drugs, and to appreciate the beating heart in your chest, and the memories and stories pulsing through your veins. Never take your life for granted. If you are reading this, you have yet to fulfill your purpose on this earth. I pray for your strength and perseverance in becoming the best you can be.
I wrote this poem when I got home last night, and it's dedicated to the tow truck driver. May he rest in peace, cradled safely in the love of our Father.
I watched you die tonight.
I didn't know you more
Than three or four sentences
Just casual words exchanged,
"What happened to the car?"
"Where would you like it towed?"
You smiled, simply, kindly
Just doing your job
Just helping out a frightened girl
On the side of a dangerous highway.
I heard the noise
I did not see the car
What was she thinking?
How could she leave you there,
Speeding off in a frantic hurry like that?
It must have been Fear, I decide.
All I remember were
The golden headlights
As I leapt in front of
Countless cars
Screaming, screaming,
"Stop! Stop!"
I pointed at your body
I did not dare to go too close.
The ambulance came.
They lit the flares.
The paramedic approached me-
"He's passed."
"Just five deep breaths."
"It's out of your control."
And I learned tonight
You cannot buy a Life
With unceasing sobs
And helpless prayers of pleading.
So I'm left to say,
Rest now, sir,
In the arms of the One who loves you most.
I asked Him to give you
His deepest place of Love
I asked Him to care for
Your grieving family
I never got to meet your brother
Who, I overheard,
Was on his way
So all I have
Is your full name
R.L.C
I'll carry it forever with me.