On September 3, a man from St. George was killed in an auto/pedestrian accident. His name was Braydon Nielsen, and I really didn't know him. Through my job I had seen his name and probably his face, but we had never had a conversation. But because of my job, when Braydon passed, I had the opportunity to learn a bit about this kind and amazing man who inspired the people around him. He is the kind of person I want to be. I won't take the time to tell you his story, but if you are interested, you can learn about him here or here. Suffice it to say, his story is worth reading.
The significance of Braydon's story in my life came about a week after his passing. Lyndy Butler, a local musician, was commissioned to write a song for Braydon and thanks to the ever informing world of Facebook, I was introduced to a sweet and simple song with a powerful message. It is undoubtedly my favorite song right now. I listen to it multiple times a day. You can listen to it here, if you would like-and I recommend you do! It is applicable on so many different levels.
I am often guilty of getting caught up in wanting what I want right now and I fail to see the world around me. It's incredibly selfish, and a trait I am not necessarily proud of. This song is a gentle reminder to me that:
- When life is difficult we need to keep moving forward with a smile
- Everyone is facing a struggle we know nothing about and we need to be kind to one another
- I am lucky to have amazing friends and family who are waiting to help me in my time of need
- If we surround ourselves with people who love us, the hard things in life are a little less hard
- Things happen on the Lord's timetable-not mine
- My Heavenly Father loves me! (for those of you who don't know, I am LDS and you can learn more about what I believe at www.lds.org)
- You don't have to win to be a winner, just gotta be somebody's friend-
- It's not about how fast you get there...It's about who's waiting for you at the end!
