"Expect the best. Prepare for the worst. Capitalize on what comes."
- Zig Ziglar
While serving in the United Station Navy in Hawaii, stationed at Pearl Harbor, I received a message that my mother had a heart attack. I will never forget the feeling of helplessness I had. When I arrived at the hospital and entered her room, she was connected to machines and a tube down her throat to help her breath. She looked practically dead to me. I prayed that if she survived that - I'd never get caught off guard again.
A similar situation like that happened with one of my older brothers who was killed by a hit and run driver. I was in High School and the thought of losing a sibling was not even in my realm of thinking. Losing a loved one can be a very tragic situation and while we dread the moment, it will come.
Tragedy will strike us all in some shape, form or fashion in our lives. It may not be the death of a loved one, it might just be a broken hot water heater, or a ticket, or a broken relationship with a significant other or spouse. The question I began to ask myself is - what will you do if ... happens?
Being prepared for tragedy before it strikes can make all the difference in the world. Yes we will all grieve and have frustration but if you've managed that expectation, I believe the pain associated with that tragedy can be lessened.
My mom went on to live another 40+ years and when she passed 2 years ago - I was incredibly prepared. I had the opportunity to spend 2 months with her before she passed and I took every opportunity to tell her I loved her and to give her flowers as much as I could. I can say that I was at peace when she departed, the feeling I had 40 years prior was not there. I hope this can be encouragement to you to be prepared for tragedy.
