On August 20, a Natural Resources ranger in Fort Collins, Colorado drowned while on duty.
While it was still dark the next morning, on my way to an early mountain bike ride, the lights of law enforcement vehicles easily caught my attention as they reflected off the reservoir where Brendan Unitt, age 27, had been pulled from the water just a couple hours before.
Today, one week later, I saw the procession held in his honor.
All vehicles pulled over.
A group of young boys hung over the fence and waved flags.
It was time to stop.
As fire engines, police cars, ambulances and various Natural Resources vehicles passed by, I knew it was time for me to stop too.
I turned off my engine, and I took off my hat. I reflected on the value of life while appreciating the one that was lost.
This was a moment to give thanks. A moment to remember and be grateful for the sacrifice given and the privileges we have.
We need to recognize times in life when we should stop, then do so respectfully.
It’s not always about productivity.
Sometimes we need to stop.
