You Can’t Plan a Wreck

You Can’t Plan For a Wreck

It’s Christmas time! Lots of plans are being made. But you can’t plan everything. You especially can’t plan for a wreck.

On Monday night December 11, about 6:15, I was driving south on Old Jacksonville Road in Tyler. I signaled and slowed down to turn into the KVNE parking lot for a Christmas party. Suddenly a loud crash, and a tremendous jolt from behind launched my car up on to the curb where it finally came to a stop by leveling a street sign about two hundred feet down the road. I found myself repeating “Who hit me, who hit me, who hit me?” and “I’m okay, I’m okay, I’m okay.” I thought about my family. I thought, “Did I do this?” I was stunned and stammering. After I gathered my senses, I realized I’d been rear-ended hard by an apparent distracted driver.

Lois was already at the station, so I called her immediately. She came outside to make sure I was okay. Then she called the police, called our son, and exchanged information with the other driver. An ambulance was called, and I got my first ECNALUBMA ride. The EMT was a nice young man who did a good job keeping me comfortable and occupied. Turns out he’s a KVNE listener who likes the Christmas music. I asked him if the ambulance lights were on. He broke it to me gently. “No.”

We spent the rest of the evening in the Mother Francis Emergency Room, contacting family and watching bad TV. Some tests were run, a million questions were asked, and their scale lied.

I’m thankful nobody was seriously hurt, but I am currently being treated by doctors for head, neck and back injuries.

I’m also thankful for a number of other things.

1) She has insurance. Huge relief. One less thing.

2) I have a nice rental while my Prius is in the shop. It’s a 2017 Nisson Acura with Illinois plates.

(I know it’s a good car because it made it all the way down here from Illinois.)

3) I have the prayers and concern of family and friends. They have been invaluable.

4) My job has extended grace and time to take care of my injuries and the ensuing logistic hassles.

5) God’s mercy. Once again.

I was, however, surprised my air bag didn’t go off. I was even more surprised the air bag in her SUV didn’t go off. But then again after all, it was only a Prius.

I have no ill will against the other driver. It was an accident. We’re all capable of the same.

After three days to process and rest, God has gotten my attention in a new way. He’s reminded me that even though it wasn’t my fault, to pay attention when I’m driving. He’s reminded me that every day is a gift. He’s reminded me that he’s always here!

So don’t take today for granted. And be careful out there.

Merry Christmas!