Posted by Jim Love on July 2, 2012 · Leave a Comment
Recent headlines in the local news took me back to previous times in my life…
Have you heard the song “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton? In my opinion- one of the most touching songs I have ever heard. Do you know or remember the story behind the song?
In 1991 Clapton’s four year old son fell from an open window 53 stories to his death. The song “Tears in Heaven” was inspired by this tragedy- one way in which he dealt. I could never imagine bearing my soul in such a fashion to share my personal thoughts and feelings with the world regarding the loss of a child. Can you imagine?
Years earlier while still a medic, I responded to a child who fell three floors to his death. It was sad and tragic. It was preventable.
Recently two children in CT and one in PA fell from open windows- one died. These events are all preventable.
It’s hot, it’s miserable- open windows are often the only respite. In the case of Clapton’s son Connor, a cleaning person momentarily opened the window for cleaning. In mere seconds the worst, most unimaginable event took place. 53 stories. Four years old. Preventable.
This is one of many childhood deaths that take no time at all- drowning- including bath tub is another example. Following the Connecticut events at least one of the news shows discussed simple window guards sold at most hardware and home improvement stores. Low cost, quick and easy to install. If you rent- then speak to your landlord.
Please don’t be another headline- another statistic.
“Tears In Heaven”
Lyrics by Eric Clapton and Will Jennings
…
“Time can bring you down
Time can bend your knees
Time can break your heart
Have you begging please, begging please.
Beyond the door, there’s peace I’m sure,
And I know there’ll be no more
Tears in Heaven.”
…
