A few days ago, I received a CNN Breaking News Bulletin. Tiger Woods had violated a ball-drop rule at the U.S. Masters Tournament.
That's not breaking news.
So yesterday when I received another breaking news alert, I did not give the bombing in Boston much thought. I assumed it was more significant than the dropped ball, but still minor in its impact.
I was wrong.
I didn't even watch much of the coverage last night. I didn't want to think about it.
But then this morning, I saw what happened. I acknowledged three people died and hundreds more were injured. I remembered what mile 26 feels like and how important it is to have loved ones in that very spot cheering for you.
Some of those fans will never walk again.
What if?
I made a point to enjoy every step on my walk to work. I was glad it was longer than usual.
Simon and I lingered a while in the park. He smelled everything. And I have forgotten how many times he hiked his little leg to pee. He almost got that squirrel. One more time. It never gets old.
We can't prevent bad things from happening, but we can commit to not taking today for granted.
So if a ball gets dropped today, pick it up. Be glad that you can.
There's your breaking news.