Accidents Part 4

October 23, 2026

Many wonderful things have begun with an accident. In 1928, Alexander Fleming noticed mold growing on a dish of bacteria and left a clear circle around itself. His observation began the journey toward penicillin. In 1895, Wilhelm Röntgen discovered X-rays, which could pass through flesh, while experimenting with electrical equipment. And in 1956, engineer Wilson Greatbatch put the wrong resistor into a device he was building to record heart sounds. The electrical pulse it produced led him toward the implantable cardiac pacemaker.

These discoveries give me pause to reflect. What good things have come from accidents in my own life or in the lives of those I love? 

Here is one such story. Many years ago, I was leaving a place of business in our small town when I saw a very pregnant young woman approaching the glass door. I recognized her as the birth mother of our daughter, Lauren, who was due soon. We had agreed not to meet, but I recognized her from the photographs we had exchanged.

Hoping to spare us an awkward encounter, I hurried head down, to get through the door before she arrived. I miscalculated. Despite my efforts to slip past her sideways, we ended up belly to belly. I quickly made my way out of the little human logjam. But in that one sweet, unforgettable moment, with Lauren between us, I said silently, “Hi, Lauren.”

That was my first meeting with my daughter.

When Lauren was a little girl, and later a young woman, she loved hearing me tell that story. A smile would spread across her face each time. I am so grateful for that accident, and for the bond we shared throughout her life.

Inquiry

Has an accident ever brought something good into your life?

Prayer

Dear God, I will always be grateful for that accidental meeting. Even now, I can say, “Hi, Lauren,” through the veil and feel her sweet presence.

Amen