This week i saw another instance of an acquaintance making it into the news. This time it was under less happy circumstances, though perhaps more joyous. Christopher Seeling was driving a train as it went off on the wrong track, due to the negligence of another. His train ran into another train parked on this side track, tanker cars derailed, and the lethal chlorine gas within them leaked out. Nine people nearby including Chris, succumbed to the gas and went to meet their Maker. Though I didn't know him very well, I do have a vivid memory of him. Rachel's family was in town and we were all at a fellowship lunch at church. Rachel's five-year-old brother Nik was told that the stocky fellow sitting over there at the other table drove trains. We were all taken aback and very amused at how quickly Nik -- who is usually quite shy -- went over to ask him question upon question about his profession. I mourn his passing, but i hope to speak with him again. Though we are sad that he has left us, those that knew him best knew that he was a believer, so I am entirely confident that the music that he heard when he slipped behind the scenery was much better than this. [5.3 MB MPEG-4 file of "Train Wreck" by Sarah McLachlan] Rest him well, Lord Jesus. |
