Life often seems to have cruel and sarcastic hands. Stein is a quiet and caring individual. His infections smile and twinkling eyes make him a wanted member of every group. The fact that he was strong, physically and emotionally, added to his charm. In our first meeting, I knew I wanted to know this gentleman better.
We were excited when he announced he was getting married. He was filled with peace and hope. Everything appeared to be aligned in his favor. The wedding wishes reinforced the fact that anyone who had met either of them wished them the best in their future together.
It has been three weeks since the wedding. The 3rd week’s anniversary came with a cruel reminder. Stein was released from his medically induced coma that was treatment for a severe concussion. The accident 1 week into the marriage was unexpected. I know it will be a dark night for some time, but I did not see that when we visited the hospital.
The irony of random events is not new. Individuals across the ages have had to face the cruel irony of what can happen. Wisdom fathers, innocents, and proponents of evil have all faced life’s hand. One writer captured the memories of one such event. “I arrived on the outskirts of Damascus about noon, a blinding light blazed out of the skies and I fell to the ground, dazed.” (Acts 22.6) Was it anticipated? No way. Was it expected? Impossible. Was it reality? Yes!
I stood next to a smiling father. He was excited that we were here. He talked of hope and opportunities. He updated us on the progress. His infectious perspective took me to a place that I did not imagine.
I walked out of the hospital room wondering who had visited whom. Did I come to support or had I been supported? I hope both were true. I know the latter was. Life always asks us what will happen in the moment at hand. Yesterday I discovered one man’s answer. In surprise, I found an invitation to More.
