Even though my children and I are grieving over a tough loss, that of an outstanding teacher that we were blessed to know, even though she died far too young at 43, and even though I can’t wrap my mind around the ‘whys’ of this tragedy, I still know that God is in charge. Life isn’t random, nor should we be victims of our circumstances.

I want to rail at God over this, but I won’t. I simply can’t imagine any good coming out of this, I don’t see the Big Picture, I only see the devastation her family is experiencing and the grief in our community.

A principal at another school, as upset as everyone else, reminded me that someday we’ll understand. The old gospel song, Farther Along, has reverberated in my mind all day.

I tend to peruse some of my faith building books, books on positive thinking or right attitudes when I find myself flailing along.

In one favorite book of mine, Making a Habit of Success, Mack R Douglas states,

“Control of temper, stern discipline of hate, jealousy, and revenge with insertion of positive thinking, love, hope, desire can make your life a magnificent obsession rather than a meaningless odyssey.”

Mrs. Anderson, the middle school teacher, demonstrated all positive qualities even while under great stress, during ball games, and in every single one of her interactions with others. She was known for this aspect and it served her well, resulting in everyone always thinking the world of her.

Her life was a magnificent obsession. She adored her wonderful family, absolutely loved her job and never, ever complained about anything. She lived well.

I’m taking stock of my own life with my litany of complaints at times yet still realizing that my life too is more than a meaningless odyssey. I’m definitely obsessed with it, even magnificently so. I needed to remind myself of that tonight as I struggle to answer all my children’s questions over this shockingly, untimely death of such a wonderful woman.