The Strawberry Moon... Some call it the Rose Moon... Whatever... the moon is out in brilliance this nite as we have moved from our old house to Lakeside overlooking Reinhold Lake. This is the house that my mom and dad lived in for about 25 years.
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For me, the panoramic view has spawned memories and a recollection that I have wanted to share in the last week, especially in light of the tragic incidents that have taken place in our region.
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It was nearing dusk and I was in my early twenties when I became the focus of the television camera. I was oblivious to my unplanned fame as I walked down the shoreline of this reservoir that we simply called the "big dam". I did not have time to prepare a statement or even straighten my hair or tidy my clothes, when all at once I came face to face with the lady and her microphone. I turned to catch a glimpse of the camera not focused on her, but rather aiming straight at me. I must say I was dumbfounded, as I watched her drop the mic to about waist level and ask quietly if I wanted to say anything. I can still recall staring her in the eye probably more in disbelief and astonishment than anger or fright.
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You see... just hours before, a life changing event happened to me along with my family. What had taken place would change lives of thousands. I had not only just witnessed the death of my two brothers and a good friend. Not only had I witnessed it, I was in the midst of the drama that took place. I was in the boat... I was in the water... when they drowned. I was there with family and friends enjoying the late spring afternoon when everything that we held dear seemingly fell apart. I heard the words of my mother as I lay on shore gasping for breath when she said through tears, "Larry, they're gone"!
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In no time there were people on scene. First responders, the concerned and the curious... and the news media. Over the next days to weeks, we were "in the news" a lot. All well meaning for the most part. But I will never forget that first time. Unlike a politician or celebrity, I was not looking to be front and center for a photo op. Some may have said I was in shock, but no... I was just processing. My life was going to be so different. I could have nearly died, as well. My brothers and friend did die. When I was in that water fighting, my past life did not flash before my eyes but rather "what about the future". That was playing on my mind and weighing heavy on my heart.
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This all happened over four decades ago. Long before social medial... long before the internet... I had a little space. However, that is not the way it is today. Certainly, we all need support, sympathy and understanding. But I will go on record and say that each of us as we go through tragic life event, we also need space and time. We need to free from the piercing eyes of the onlookers. My word... an event cannot even take place any longer without the sensationalism one day and old news the next. When we need the thoughtfulness of others in our lives, too often those others are already occupied with news from around the world. Too often, the need for support may need to come months even years down the road, but we have moved on and have forgotten the one day at a time scenario.
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Was I resentful of the news media? Did the overwhelming attention of the masses smother me? Am I bitter. Honestly, I think that God has brought me more in tune to the needs of others that are hurting. I think, perhaps I am more sensitive to folks that have been through dire circumstances. I believe with all my heart that most of us need to adjust "our good intentions" to better suit those that are going through the valley and the shadows.
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The glow of the moon across the water tonight is such a good reminder. The moon has no light of its own. And yet its reflection as the result of a reflection (of the sun) carries a powerful but silent message. Be a light in the darkness and one does best when that light comes from the Almighty.
