The Disappearance and the Search
One of the first mysteries in civil aviation occurred in 1913 during an air race to commemorate Orville Wright’s first flight. Albert Jewell took off from Long Island with a destination of Staten Island.
Somewhere over Long Island Sound, he and his aircraft disappeared.
And people began the search. Some searched the land where he might have gone down. Others boarded boats and scoured the water. And pilots risked the same fate by flying over the area.
The people who searched may or may not have known Mr. Jewell.
They gave their time and resources and some risked their lives.
Even if they thought Jewell was foolhardy or wrong to do what he was doing.
They searched.
Because another human being needed help.
Needing Help
Every person is precious — priceless — even if our last name isn’t Jewell.
And there are times when each of us need help.
And we hope that others will help — even if they think we are foolhardy or wrong.
Giving Help
And each of us must decide if we will give the help we can.
Even if we think someone has been foolhardy or wrong.
And our decision says more about us than anything else could.
What motivates you to help, regardless of who needs help, or what we personally think of their life choices?
The Search for a Missing Jewell – What motivates you to give help? Share on XNOTE: No wreckage was ever found of Jewell’s aircraft. Some remains washed ashore, but it was impossible to conclusively identify them as Jewell.
Joni 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.
Sometimes life bogs us down so much we can’t help others. We can barely stay afloat ourselves. It is good to take our troubles to the Lord to clear them up, so that we could help others once more. Psalm 34:6.
Thank you for reading and sharing, Jane. I’m grateful God gives strength and guidance.
I always enjoy reading your historical insights, Joni. Great post, and thought provoking.
Thanks for reading and commenting, Phyllis. I’m glad my posts are helpful.
Jesus lived the life we Christians strive to emulate. His kindness, compassion, and willingness to “rescue” those in need are traits to guide our actions. And ultimately Jesus gave His life for others, just as those who put themselves in harm’s way recognize that they may lose their lives for the sake of others. You remind us to examine our willingness to help others, to what extent are we willing to put their needs above our own?
Thanks for your thoughts, Katherine. I appreciate you reading and sharing.
Thank you for this post, Joni. All people are important, for sure.
I always appreciate you reading my posts and sharing, Tim. Thank you!