Tragedy at my Break Time Spot

https://ithacavoice.com/2022/10/ithaca-fire-department-rescues-person-from-ithaca-falls-gorge/

One week ago today, something came up and Howie needed to use the vehicle, so I didn't go in to Ithaca and work.

As you know if you follow my blog, Ithaca Falls is my break time spot. I do check out other places, but with few exceptions I come here first.

One week ago today, if I'd been in Ithaca like I was supposed to be, it's very likely I would have been right there when it happened.

It has been haunting me ever since I heard. There are lots of theories as to why he wasn't able to get out, such as an undertow or getting caught in debris... none of which sit right.

I've swam here many times.

Technically you're not supposed to, as they don't employ a lifeguard, but that has never stopped anyone. Of course it's too chilly for swimming now, but not so cold that it would factor.

A few weeks ago I even wrote a post about swimming here, skinny dipping in fact, when I was young and first in love.

It was sometime late September that magical, romantic night. And the falls were thunderous, far more so than they are right now.

One week ago a man's life ended because he wanted a better angle for his photo. What bothers me the most- there's always people here...how did no one help?

Perhaps he hit his head on the way in, and that's why he didn't come up. But why did people just stand around waiting for an emergency crew?

If I had been there, could I have done something? Or would I have tried only to endanger myself?

Like I said, it's been haunting me. My dad always believed that we have an appointed time. That a date with death is set in stone. I never have been able to decide if that's true.

And this guy? He either didn't hear the story, or is making a point... definitely a little weird to see someone in the water right now.

And to add to the surreal nature of what just happened in my peaceful sanctuary, I came across the rock face...and it's all been torn down.

I've grown used to the flashes of color from the graffitied rocks that adorn it, so even from a distance I could tell something was off.

Sure enough, every last one of them are sitting in a pile. Why? Who pulled them down and why?

It was with a touch of melancholy that I trudged back to my car, thinking of the poor man's family, knowing how it feels to get that particular horrible, life-changing news.

I sat on a rock for a bit, mulling, when I noticed the birds. The tree with its Autumn Leaves was a perfect camouflage until they lifted off.

All but one, and it seemed like it was staring at me. I had the strangest sensation that it was waiting for something. Or perhaps waiting with me while I processed and exorcised the shadow that had fallen over my day.

Life is so fleeting, and accidents happen to prove that point.

That's why my new mantra is Make It A Great Day, you never know when it's your last one so try and be mindful of each one. It's a reminder to myself of this and if it empowers someone else along the way, all the better! :)