Confusion Can Cause Tragedy
For five Navy Avengers on a training flight off the Florida coast in 1942, confusion meant catastrophe. In radio transmissions, the pilots reported compass malfunctions and disorientation. The transmissions grew more faint until there was only silence. The general consensus is that as the aircraft searched for land, they eventually ran out of fuel and crashed into the ocean. The Avengers were never located, so the theory can’t be confirmed.
The tragedy increased when a seaplane sent to locate and rescue them was also lost. A cargo tanker spotted a fire on the ocean, and later an oil slick, at the last reported location of the seaplane. The plane suffered some failure that caused either an in-flight fire and explosion, or it burned on crash landing into the water.
Tragedy Can Cause Confusion
When I’ve experienced tragedy, even if I know the cause, the loss, shock, and grief can also cause confusion.
Confusion about what happened, or why, and how to respond.
And my imagination can create any number of helpful—or unhelpful—reasons and scenarios.
When Confusion and Tragedy Happen
Confusion happens in life. And so does tragedy.
And I’m grateful when others try to help. Whether or not they improve the situation, knowing someone cares is comforting.
The actions that help me overcome confusion and tragedy are:
— Admit I’m confused, and not try to act like I understand those sudden, life-upsetting events.
— Feel the feelings, and ask God to help me not be overwhelmed by them.
— Ask God for the next right thing to do, and for the power and courage to keep going.
— Do my best and never give up.
— Be thankful for the positive results, and learn how I can handle something more effectively the next time.
Confusion and tragedy too often go hand in hand, and can be made better, or worse, by my reaction and response.
What helps you deal with confusion and tragedy?
What helps you deal with confusion and tragedy? Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
Good insights, Joni. Confusion can cause tragedy, and tragedy can cause confusion. Either way, the Lord brings clarity when we keep our thoughts on Him and His Word.
Turning to Scriptures that address whatever issue I’m facing. The Psalms are always calming.
Good post, Joni.
Thanks for reading and commenting, Tim. I appreciate it.
As Mr. Roger’s said look for the helpers.
Thanks for reading and commenting, Judy. I appreciate your support of my writing.