Tonight a young police officer in our area was shot & killed in the line of duty. There are obvious messages of love & support pouring from my heart. There is also much more.
I hesitate to pass judgement on anyone. One just never knows what battles any one person is facing at any moment. There's so much to consider - from mental wellness, misdirection, fear, stress, lack of support, physical health, to danger....life is different for all of us. Even in small town America where many define things as safe, calm & even boring or plain, life can be complicated & fleeting.
I immediately thought after allowing myself to read the news release confirming the death of this young officer - we ALL just need to live better. I know that, just like we're all living different realities, that this could mean something different to everyone. But I say it again. We all need to live BETTER.
I'm struggling to use the word senseless in describing this tragedy. The sacrifice of safety & life of a police officer is in no way senseless. These actions are conscious decisions made in the name of protecting others. I need a better word. Is it dishonorable? I am appalled that this officer & his family & his department & law enforcement officers would be dishonored.
I am not shy or quiet about my respect for law enforcement. I won't say that having a father who was a police officer is easy. I'm sure that he would agree that "easy" is not an adjective to describe his career or even his retirement. Perhaps I had a greater understanding of the fragility of life & the spectrum of humanity that exists all over the world from a young age. There are young people all over the world waiting up for their parents to pull in the driveway from their shift or tour.
It rips me apart to know that there are so many people grieving this loss tonight. Can't we all just please live better? Every decision that we make & every statement that we make has an impact on someone else & continues on forever shaping peoples' lives.
In honor of Brad Fox - let's be aware of our actions & how they impact others. Let's not sacrifice the safety & well-being of others for personal gain. Let's live better. It's not senseless. It is a courageous decision to protect & serve.
Thank you Officer Fox & much respect to the law enforcement community that mourns this terrible loss. This family is on my mind & my heart sends support & strength.
A listing of musings & accomplishments to keep me on point - and maybe finish something that I start.
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