As I was reflecting on what to write today, I kept glancing towards a Witness Subpoena sitting on the desk before me. It is a court request for me to appear as a witness in a trial regarding an accident in which a motorcyclist was killed.
The accident happened nearly two years ago and the court date delayed several times. My part is that it happened in front of me and I assisted as much as I could. It was the proper thing to do in assisting both the victim and the other party. Simply put, it was a tragic accident that changed forever not only their lives but for those near to them.
But as I look at the subpoena, it occurred to me that I was becoming perturbed by the delays and 'inconvenience' all of this causes me. I had to stop and examine those thoughts. Is this why many people do not stop and assist others in need? There were many that left the scene of the accident, not wanting to involve themselves. I began to wonder if it was worth my effort.
It shook me back into reality, the understanding that it was the right thing to do. It may inconvenience me, but people's lives were at stake then; people's lives are at stake now. I think of both these people, one that died, one that survived and wish that things could have been different. Two minutes later leaving the house for one, having another cup of coffee or any of a hundred different scenarios. But fate brought these two together and nothing can change that now.
I will attend and give my witness statement, other evidence will be brought forth and lives will be changed once again. Yes, the accident did change me in ways but it did not change my belief that stopping to assist someone in need is the right thing to do. I would have wanted someone to stop for me and I am sure that you would have as well.
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