Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

11/17/01
How to Honor those Lost in a Tragedy


One moment you’re just going through the routine of another day, and the next moment your life is shattered. I know the feeling well, because it happened to me on Dec. 11, 1998.

My bother, Thomas Goodwin, was gunned down in a trailer park while trying to do his duty. Not only was he a police officer, he was a loving, optimistic Christian. And in a moments time he was taken from us.

I know the gut-wrenching pain that cannot be expressed.

I know the empty feelings that emerge on Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, and on birthdays.

I know the sleepless nights and blood shot eyes.

But I also know the transforming power of a loving God who can create the universe out of nothing, and can take the worst of tragedies and bring purpose, life and meaning from it.

Whether the location is a trailer park, high school, skyscraper, or a hill on Calvary, God can turn tragedy into triumph.

I am so grateful that I turned to my Heavenly Father for strength and comfort in my own personal loss. Through him I have found the courage to forgive, the strength to keep going, and the ability to see beyond the tragedy into the wonders of God’s presence.

In light of the recent tragedy in New York, I’m reminded of a choice we can make. A choice, which means the difference between revival and a fall into bitterness. I chose God long before my brother’s death, but it was that morning that my faith came to the test.

The moment after the news came to me, over the phone, I could not speak or think clearly. The only thing clear was my prayer, “God, I need you now more than ever”. I did not know the full power of that prayer for some time, but God started right there. God provided many small miracles to show me his great love and compassion.

We should all choose God before the tragedy hits, but if you haven’t it is not too late. Open your heart, turn to God, and listen for His voice. If you let him in, a peace beyond understanding can be yours, and an even greater reward of eternal life.

Honor the memory of your loved one, honor God, and stand with others in time of tragedy. No, better yet kneel with others in prayer.

All Glory be unto God!

Michael Goodwin
(Brother of Thomas)

Michael Goodwin

Time keeps on going, so does my pain. The years have done nothing to help me heal. So many things I grew up to believe are questioned now. Without you, I can't seem to find the answers.

I need you now more than ever. Please continue to watch over me, big brother.

I will alway love you.

Deborah