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Joann Macy said, “The heart that breaks open can contain the whole universe.”

It seems we spend endless amounts of time trying to keep our heart from breaking. But, life has a way of sneaking up on us with events that do just that. When all the dust settles, and you put the pieces back together, at some point you realize that you’re maybe a little stronger than you thought; compassion runs a little deeper inside of you and you care for those who are going through hard times just a little more. Basically we learn to be human.

Recently my cousin lost her son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter in a massive rock slide here in Colorado. The family had gone out for a hike on a beautiful fall day. And then it happened, a rock slide the size of a football field over took them. One of the daughters was pushed to safety although still injured while five of them perished in a moment. My cousin’s family along with two nephews. With the news of the loss my heart broke open and grief poured in; grief for my cousin, a mother and grandmother who lost so much; for a son who had stayed home and 13 year old daughter who must now live without their parents and a sibling; for extended family and for more than a thousand people who attended their service who will now live without their friends.

It’s at times like this we are reminded that life is precious and of what is important. We face our on mortality and are reminded that it’s not about what you have but what you do with your life.  Yes, I can see it now, “the heart that breaks open can contain the whole universe.”