The long-standing spire at Notre-Dame Cathedral de Paris has collapsed after fire engulfed the structure today. The iconic 850-year old church is just another sad reminder that “Nothing Lasts Forever.” The thought that last year’s visit would be the last never even crossed my mind. To watch the footage is absolutely heartbreaking, especially the week before Easter. Lost inside were priceless artifacts, artwork, and documents, not to mention the final resting spots of Bishops, Cardinals, and other church servants. It was “the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages and distinguished for its size, antiquity, and architectural interest.” “Our Lady of Paris” does not contain remains of “famous” people, as is the case with many historic churches like St. Peter’s Westminster Abbey and Winchester Cathedral. Oh-bo-de-o-do.

No one aspires to be a pessimist like me; always thinking of what could go wrong? However, each of us needs to appreciate every moment like it could be the last. Life is fragile and the things we think will last forever can disappear in a flash. Always remember what we lost on 9-11, while tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, and tsunamis all to often take away the things we love. Then there’s war, snipers, terrorists, disease, and accidents that can also strike at any time. Hold on dearly to your friends, family, and possessions as if there is no tomorrow.

On the positive side, fortunes can also change for the better. We all saw Tiger Woods win The Master’s after a 14-year drought of personal and physical struggles. His great comeback story dominated yesterday’s news, just as today’s suddenly turned tragic. Will good ever come from such a disaster? Some how? Some way!

Even the Portland Trailblazers ended their 10-game Playoff losing streak yesterday by beating the Thunder. It’s just another example of how “Nothing Lasts Forever” – Good or Bad! Their persistence certainly isn’t comparable with whatever develops in Paris, France or with anyone’s personal challenges in life. However, with sports as in life, it’s a matter of which way the ball bounces. Hopefully, you’ll get nothing but good bounces, so appreciate every one, but for every bad bounce just remember, “Nothing Lasts Forever.”