This week's news brings a mix of tragedy, relief, and personal reflection. From a heartbreaking accident in Northern Ireland to a near-death experience in Brooklyn, and a writer's journey to accepting help, there's a lot to unpack.
Tragic Accident in Co Derry
The week began with devastating news from Northern Ireland. An 11-year-old girl tragically died after being struck by a car as she exited her school bus. The incident occurred outside the village of Castledawson in Co Derry on Wednesday afternoon. Our thoughts are with the family and community during this incredibly difficult time.
Miraculous Escape in Brooklyn
In a story of incredible luck, a family in Brooklyn narrowly avoided a potentially fatal accident. Ben and Shelly Kerstein, along with a relative, were walking in the Bensonhurst neighborhood when a massive tree crashed down just seconds after they had passed. The Kersteins described their escape as nothing short of a miracle. “We couldn’t believe our eyes,” said Ben Kerstein. “It felt like something out of a movie.”
A Writer's Reflection on "Maid" and Hiring Help
Switching gears to a more personal narrative, author Stephanie Land, known for her bestselling memoir "Maid," shared her experience of finally hiring house cleaners six years after the book's publication. Land delves into the complexities of accepting help, especially after writing about the struggles of being a low-income single mother. It seems that sometimes, even when success arrives, the emotional baggage can linger.
Land wrote, "For years, I couldn't bring myself to do it. It felt like a betrayal, a sign that I had somehow 'made it' and was no longer one of the people I wrote about." This essay highlights the often-unseen emotional toll that success can take, and the challenges of reconciling past struggles with present realities.
From near-death experiences to the quiet struggles of personal growth, this week's news reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of empathy.
