I had some really cute posts in mind for today. I thought of writing about "Downton Abbey" and its return or posting more pictures of New York City. But I woke up this morning and glanced at my phone. There was a news flash from CNN about a Metro-North train derailment in the Bronx, and that was it. I was glued to the television set for the entire morning, and on and off for the rest of the afternoon.
Metro-North is the commuter train line to the counties north of New York City and to Connecticut. I started traveling on the line that came before it, The New Haven Railroad, literally decades ago and I travel on the line that derailed often. The last time was on Thanksgiving. I was traveling with friends and we commented that the train seemed "jumpy" somewhere just about the place it derailed today. I have many friends and colleagues who use this line daily and it is fortunate that it wasn't Thanksgiving or later today or any rush hour when the train would be much more crowded. Of course the incident isn't fortunate, but a tragedy for those who were killed and injured. So far, friends and colleagues are accounted for, including my friend Amy's daughter who was on the next train on her way back to Manhattan.
I don't think I've ever quoted a politician here in Buttercupland, and I may never do so again, but Governor Andrew Cuomo's remark stuck with me. "It's a reminder...that life is a precious gift." In the midst of Chanukah and at the start of Advent, and in the quiet moments all through the year, there is no better message.
Thanks for visiting. Take good care of yourselves and give someone you love an extra hug!
Metro-North is the commuter train line to the counties north of New York City and to Connecticut. I started traveling on the line that came before it, The New Haven Railroad, literally decades ago and I travel on the line that derailed often. The last time was on Thanksgiving. I was traveling with friends and we commented that the train seemed "jumpy" somewhere just about the place it derailed today. I have many friends and colleagues who use this line daily and it is fortunate that it wasn't Thanksgiving or later today or any rush hour when the train would be much more crowded. Of course the incident isn't fortunate, but a tragedy for those who were killed and injured. So far, friends and colleagues are accounted for, including my friend Amy's daughter who was on the next train on her way back to Manhattan.
I don't think I've ever quoted a politician here in Buttercupland, and I may never do so again, but Governor Andrew Cuomo's remark stuck with me. "It's a reminder...that life is a precious gift." In the midst of Chanukah and at the start of Advent, and in the quiet moments all through the year, there is no better message.
Thanks for visiting. Take good care of yourselves and give someone you love an extra hug!
14 comments
Life is indeed a very precious Gift Carol. May we each of us be grateful for the life we have been given. ((((hugs))))
I learned of the accident this a.m. and immediately thought of you. The name of your blog says it all: Count Your Blessings. My prayers are with all of those who are injured or have lost loved ones.
Life is such a precious gift and most of us take it for granted. We never know from one day till the next what may happen. It is a good reminder for us all. So sad that such a tragedy had to happen.
Yes, indeed,life is precious. Btw, Can't wait for Downton Abby to return. Have a beautiful day.
I am thankful you weren't on that train! I have been watching the news on TV, SO SAD! Hugs coming your way dear friend!
It is good to know that you were not involved in this train derailment, Buttercup. Yes, life is a gift. Sending hugs! Nellie
So glad you weren't on that train ... that was such a horrible accident!!!
Stay safe
diane @ aug's blog
Buttercup, Life is precious and very short. That wreck should never have happened...it's not the first for that track. Take care, xoxo,Susie
I too followed the TV coverage all morning and afternoon. That was the train my nephew took to and from Vasser.
Prays for the families and those injured.
Life is precious indeed.
So true, my friend!
Sending you a great big hug.
M : )
As a person who loves traveling by train, this was so upsetting. I know quite a few people who take that line and was glad that I got no bad news about them.
It only takes a moment to change your life.
Wonderfully put, my friend.
Tragedies like this seem magnified ... crueler even, during the holidays.
Again, our thoughts are prayers are with New York.
Never take anything for granted, your post is a wonderful reminder of the fragility of life and to live life to the full. Thinking of you all in New York.
Wren x
Post a Comment