The condition resulting from bad fortune or ill luck; A distressing occurrence (American Heritage Dict.). In February 2011 an earthquake occurred in Christchurch New Zealand. To say the least, the loss of life due to a natural catastrophe is so much more than a distressing occurrence. One family suffering of loss has been compounded with additional sorrows. According to news report, Mrs. Manning was among the victims who lost their lives when their office building collapsed. Her husband and two children were waiting nearby when unknown to them at the time their house was house was being burgled. They arrived home to find it had been ransacked.
Mrs. Manning’s brother is recorded as having made statements that may bring comfort and reassurance of courage during dark days other people may be experiencing in their lives that is worth sharing. Mr. Gardiner who shortly thereafter learned of the death of his own wife after a long illness, with which we give our deepest condolences to the whole family, said: “This is the path our lives have taken. It’s not bad timing, and it’s not bad luck. Stuff happens.” He also said, “What matters is the calibre of the person. And the family have been amazing.”
I interpret this to mean, no one is at fault here. It is common for people to blame someone for hardship or death of a loved one and thus feel guilty. He was saying life happens and sometimes beyond anyone’s power to prevent. Second he meant we must be patient and accept the reality. “We just waited patiently…” and “…when they didn’t have an answer there was hope. When that hope is taken away … they’re faced with the reality that [Donna] has passed.” Allowing ourselves time to accept the reality of our loss; this is perhaps our tallest challenge. Support helps. This is Sunrise.
