Tonight, just before going to bed, I learned of the tragic break-up of the Space Shuttle Columbia on re-entry, and the probable death of her seven crew. To those astronauts and their families, I send my thoughts before I go to sleep. They are brave pioneers who work to push back the horizons of our world. I hope they found some way to cheat death. I am sure if they are confirmed dead, the world will mourn their passing.

Friday, at around half past six in the morning, a train derailed outside Sydney, killing eight and injuring 41 others. If you don't live in Australia, you probably haven't heard of this. They played their part in making our world. These were ordinary people on their way to work.

Today, probably more than one hundred people died in car crashes in the USA alone.

Who do we choose to mourn? How is this decision made? Can we truly care about the whole world, or is it just too damn big? Can anyone truly comprehend, and care for every single person who died today, or would it destroy our souls to try? And is it disrespectful to elevate any of the dead above any others?

To all who live on this earth, take a moment today to recognise what is precious to you. Cherish that now, for we are all mortal.