I recently read Mark O’Brien’s ‘Crashing: I Love You, Forgive Me’.
This book is such a gift to the community of people dealing with the grief, shame, and trauma of accidentally, unintentionally causing the death of another person. In Mark’s case, it was the tragic loss of his cherished girlfriend, with whom he was envisioning a future.
The book delves into the tumultuous emotional roller-coaster following the accident: navigating complex and difficult feelings, relationships with loved ones, encounters with the justice system, grappling with the upheaval in his professional life, and ultimately, the process of rediscovering love, both for himself and another woman.
This book is a good read for those who find themselves thrust into similar circumstances, where life as they knew it, is forever altered. Through its empathetic narrative, the book offers reassurance, reminding readers that amidst the anguish, there exists the prospect of rebuilding a fulfilling life.
The book is also a good read for those supporting individuals on a similar path, offering insights into the profound trauma experienced by those culpable for a loss of life. Mark’s candid account sheds light on the inner struggles he confronted and the transformative journey towards healing and self-forgiveness.
The book provides an example of true healing that comes from forgiveness. For many in Mark’s position, the notion of receiving forgiveness from the bereaved family remains a distant aspiration. Yet, Mark’s experience, particularly the forgiveness extended by his girlfriend's father, underscores the power of redemption amid overwhelming guilt and shame.
Mark’s story is not only inspiring but also tremendously hopeful. The journey to a life that is full of meaning and joy is available to those who are given good support and are able to reach out beyond the devastation.
