I’m workin’ on the high hope
And if it all works out, you might just see me
Or hear from me in a while
I’m gonna make it across this tight rope
Then I’m comin’ for my prize
No more I’ll be waitin’ ’round
While life just passes by
Maybe when our hearts realign
Maybe when we’ve both had some time
I’m gonna see you there
— Glen Hansard, High Hope

Hearing this morning that Glen Hansard was killed in a motorcycle accident in Dublin earlier today, leaving behind a wife and young child. Hansard joined the soundtrack I keep just for myself, in quiet times, when I’d grown weary of the noise and clutter of the world. He’ll live on there in my soundtrack, and perhaps yours too. Still, I think of those he leaves behind, and the shock of it all.

I’m reminded of that Sting song at moments like this, about how fragile we are. Memento mori. And I’m reminded again to meet this moment squarely, for the gift that it represents. This is indeed all we have. Rest in Peace Glen Hansard.