The tragedy of James Kim’s recent death has captured the attention of the nation. What can we take away from this story that has riveted us to our televisions over the past week? For one thing we can see the heroic struggle of a man trying desperately to save his young family from certain death. It’s been suggested that had James not made that sacrificial trek down the mountain road, his family would have in all probability perished in the cold. We mourn with and pray for the family in the passing of this brave man whose children may never remember him.

While there were warnings posted at the head of the road, for someone not familiar with Oregon mountain passes, we question whether the road should have been opened at all. Evidently there had been problems in the past on this very road. Google, we were told, had mapped it as one of the better routes to take and James, being a software technician would have been expected to follow its suggested route. The fact that he and his family were not adequately dressed nor prepared for what followed is not their fault. After all, they were visitors from San Francisco and would not be expected to understand how dangerous Oregon’s mountain roads can be, particularly in this cold season. It’s a reminder to all of us to be prepared whenever we leave on longer road trips. AAA is selling a travel kit for $30 and it would be prudent to purchase one if we are intending to do any driving through the mountain passes this winter. Carrying water, blankets, flashlights, kitty litter for traction and food has also been advised by the media. Perhaps this weekend would be a good time to do some shopping instead of leaving it and then forgetting.

In the end this tragedy that has pulled all of us as viewers into the lives of this little family could serve to prevent other deaths. May James’ children grow up in the realization that their dad saved their lives with his heroic efforts.