This morning, I woke up to the 7 AM news and heard something that made me freeze in a moment. “A man died this morning at 4 AM at Campbell High School”. “The man aged 20, died when he fell from the roof “. I immediately thought about where my son was and I knew he was ok.
Then I realised he probably knew whoever it was. Later, I got a call to tell me that it was someone we all know well. He played football with my son for four years and was actually at the same orientation week party last night at ANU. While I am glad my own son is safe, I feel so badly for the parents of this other young man (his name has not been released to the public yet). I can remember the pride they had in their fine young man who was so talented in many ways. At 20 years old the world is just full of possibilities and opportunities to have fun – and to take risks. So many of our young men take risks and feel that they are indestructible. Then something goes wrong.
Every parent knows this is what happens between the ages of 18 and 25 and knowing it is rare but far too common we wait up at night listening for the door handle so we can sleep easily. Fearing a telephone call to go to some hospital or worse. Knowing that our children are independent now and need to do things on their own. No longer needing us to pick them up when they fall and patch up their knees and wounded pride. But wanting to anyway – because they are so precious to us. Farewell Robin and your so short life . To your parents, I can only say that I feel so much for your distress and I know that there is little that can be done to console your grief now.