This isn’t a post about OceanGate, per se

Everyone is transfixed on the OceanGate submarine. I think it’s because the real life story is a lot like a mystery/thriller movie. There’s money, intrigue, adventure, a mysterious vanishing by the main characters. Certainly a documentary or two will be produced all about this missing submersible machine.

When I was in my teens I didn’t think much about death. In my 20s, the thought probably crossed my mind but I still felt invincible. I’d experience the loss of loved ones by then but death still seemed so far off. Like something you only hear about in stories or on the news. In my 30s and now 40s, I’m realizing just how close death is to all of us. It’s really just a breath (or lack thereof) away. The OceanGate story reminded me of another water experience when I was camping last year. There was a diver in a spring, he and some buddies swimming through underground tunnels and caves. His friends came up. He never did. That is, until they found his body. There we were, camping and enjoying the company of loved family members and this guy woke up not thinking it would be his last day.

It’s probably true that 99% of us don’t wake up thinking it’s going to be our last day. Death comes like a thief in the night, as it’s said. I hope the people aboard this tiny underwater exploration vehicle still have a chance of being found and rescued, but at the time of this post, they have less than a day’s worth of air (and that’s only according to manufacturer notes, etc). There’s no proof any of the people have any oxygen, or if they’re even still alive.

Another tragedy happened more recently with some folks that go to my parents’ church. They have a toddler and they were at a friend’s house where there was a pool. Everyone’s worst nightmare happened and the little boy ended up in the pool. The funeral was just a few days ago. I can’t help but think of the confusion and suffering he must’ve endured.

Same with the diver, same with the crew on the submarine. Death is just moments away but all were taken completely by surprise. It’s so unfortunate and sad! I can’t even imagine the panic felt in those moments when all that’s needed is a single breath of air… and it’s not coming. Of course, the people on the sub might have a chance to escape the undertow of death, we’ll know in the next few days. At this moment, if they’re still hanging on to life, they’ve certainly dealt with the fear of dying and everything that comes along with that.

Hug your loved ones. Take advantage of the things you can, and don’t take for granted each breath you’re granted today. Also, get off the phone. Social media can’t hug you! I’m trying to remind myself of this, too. I’m also reminded of one of my favorite lines from the movie Rescue Dawn…

“God, where are you when we need you most?”

-Out of the Wilderness