A Choice to Drink and Drive Ended the Lives of a Mother and Four Children

On December 30^th 2007, a drunk driver, Michael Gagnon, 24, drove on the wrong side of Interstate 280 and collided with a minivan, killing Bethany Griffin, 36, and her daughters: Vadi Griffin, 8 weeks, Lacie Burkman, 7, and Haley Burkman, 10. Also killed was Bethany Griffin's stepdaughter, Jordan Griffin, 10.

Bethany's husband--with whom she was happy and in love with--Danny Griffin, 36, survived, as did Sydney Griffin, 8, his child from a previous marriage. Bethany Griffin's son, Beau Burkman, 8, also survived.

Michael Gagnon was charged with five counts of aggravated vehicular homicide in the deaths and his family recently released a statement written by Theresa Gagnon. Here's a portion:

"The loss of these five people, who have been important assets in the lives of many, was something to us that is unimaginable."

"Although our thoughts and prayers will always be with our son and brother, please understand that my dearest sympathies, thoughts, and prayers, and undivided attention extends to all family members, friends, and individuals that have been touched by this tragic situation.

"Our brother cannot apologize in person to everyone that has been affected, but we promise that we will do that for him."

Death and destruction seems to come to those that deserve it the least while those responsible walk away unscathed.

A drunk driver killed Bethany Griffin and four of her children. A drunk driver tore a happy family apart, leaving behind those that will grieve for the rest of their lives.

The children left behind will never again hear their mother's words of encouragement, nor will they enjoy the beautiful, creative cakes she used to bake. They will never see her proud, smiling face as she watches them graduate, marry and embark upon lives of their own. All of that has been taken from them, and so much more.

What about the husband who will never hold his wife's hand again or cuddle with the precious newborn baby who was loved and wanted--and sadly--never even lived to see her first birthday?

This catastrophe was preventable and didn't need to happen. A choice to drink and a choice to drive ended innocent lives and the repercussions for those that knew and loved the victims will be life-long. With that said, I'm sure Michael Gagnon will live with what he has done and as hard as it can be during times of mourning, forgiveness should be strived for.

Life is all about choice and consequence so make your choices with that in mind and choose well.

Some may blame God or wonder why He didn't interfere. God gave us free will and choices were made. He didn't say His people would be spared suffering. In fact, He said we would suffer. He also said that He would always be with us.

Bethany Griffin, by her own admission, was a Christian and she loved God. What she and the children endured in that moment was horrendous, but comfort can be found in knowing that she and the children were welcomed home and that they will never again experience suffering.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 6:47
I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.

John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me your may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.