A butterfly rests on a milkweed flower. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

Recently there was a horrific accident involving young people in our community. Sadly, these occurrences are not new or unusual. I wasn’t sure if my thoughts were necessary or helpful. I’m not here to comment on the why. It is awful and heart-wrenching. I don’t know anyone involved, but I still feel the brokenness of their families. I don’t know how I would maneuver through such a loss.

Friends shared stories about the families, and the same thought kept rising to the surface. Courage and bravery show up in different ways. The definitions are similar, as both words focus on having or showing mental or moral strength in the face of danger, fear or difficulty. I’ve always looked at courage as knowingly facing fear while mindful of the risk, while bravery is confronting an unexpected fear. I can’t fathom the bravery required to make a life-or-death decision.

I imagine the strength these parents require as they weave through a different world. I want to remember every step these people take as a sign of courage. Every breath they take is a symbol of bravery.

When my children were young, they lost their cousin to cancer. It was shockingly fast how quickly things fell apart. I tried to help, but some holes were never refilled. It may be bandaged or mended, but the wound never disappears. There is no “getting over it” or “time heals.” There is courage and bravery: courage to face what is known and bravery to face the unknown.

The Enterprise recently shared the family’s GoFundMe pages, and now Romano’s Saranac Lanes is hosting a bowling fundraiser and raffle on Wednesday, July 26. I can’t imagine a similar situation, but I feel so fortunate to live in such a generous community. If you already assisted in your own way, I’m sure the families are grateful. If you want to help but don’t know how, here are a few suggestions. Donate to the family’s expenses, contact Romano’s regarding a raffle donation, or come to bowl. My heart goes out to these families and everyone who has loved and lost, is broken or patched together.