2 a.m.

*ring ring*

Uhh....Hello?

Hey, we need your help. We're at a party and he's throwing up all over the place. What should I do?

Okay, where are you?

I don't know. I don't know where we're at.

Did he drink too much? Does he need to go to the hospital?

No. no. He didn't drink too much. He's just throwing up and he keeps saying your name.

Okay. Can you get out of there? Can you get home?

Well, I could drive us home.

Wait, have you been drinking too?

Yeah, but not very much. I'm fine to drive.

NO! Do NOT drive. Listen to me. Do not drive. Please.

Well what should I do? Here, talk to him.

(non-comprehendable coversation with a totally wasted kid)

Listen, you cannot drive. I'm listening to you talk and I can tell that you are not okay to drive. Do you have anyone you could call to come pick you up?

No. My parents are out of town and his parents don't know he drinks. None of our friends would come get us.

Okay, well do not drive. Stay there. I'm so serious, listen to me. Do not drive.

I think we're gonna go to sleep.

Okay, that's a good idea. Go lay down. Don't go anywhere. Please.

Okay, hey, don't tell anyone about this okay? I don't want him to get in trouble.

Okay. Bye guys.

....5 minutes later

Hey MaryBeth, we just wanted to let you know that we were totally messing around with you. Here, talk to him.

Hey MaryBeth. Completely sober here. No drinking, we're both fine.

Are you serious?

Yeah. We're just hanging out playing cards.

I learned some things about myself last night. I learned that each day counts and things can change in an instant. I learned that I would have gotten up and driven to pick up these guys if they had insisted on driving. I learned I care a ton about these people that I just met a couple of weeks ago, and for some reason I would have given just about anything to save their lives. I prayed harder in those few minutes than I have in a long time. I learned that I care. More than I realized I ever did. And I learned that opportunities are everywhere. Even if it wasn't real this time, it could be next time. And I'm glad they know I'm there to call. I care. I'll always care. I'm here. I'm always here.  Life is short. Don't waste it, dear heart. Don't waste it.