Words completely failed me. (Among the many googled links, you can also read more about James Kim here and here. He was a husband, a father of a 4 yr old and a 7 month old, and worked for CNET.com )

I first read about this story yesterday morning on another blog. I was very much hoping, like everyone else, that they will find him alive and reunite with the rest of the family. I’m not the praying type but I consciously looked up and said a hopeful phrase in my mind.

While I’m very very glad that they found Kati, Pennelope, and Sabine safe and sound, I, a stranger who’ve never known the man, became paralyzed with sadness and pain when the news came that they had found his body. She is now a widow, and the two small children are likely not to have much if any recollection of their father. The story is incredibly incredibly sad. It could have been any of us, it could have happened to anyone.

Hubby and I are about the same age as James and Kati; their two children are about the same age as our two kids. I just cannot think of Kati and what the array of emotions she’s going through without breaking down myself. I tried to put myself into her shoes, of going through a whole 11 days in the wilderness with two small children and dwindling hope of being found. Of keeping everyone, especially the baby and toddler warm and fed and occupied in the small confined space of their car (it’s difficult for me even in the luxury of my home with aids such as toys and computer and TV). Of the probably many conversations they had trying to decide what to do to get out, to get help. It was too much to bear even just thinking about it. My heart aches for Kati and the two children. And to think of what must have gone through James’ mind during his last hours and last minutes on earth is enough to break a heart of stones.

I know many others will feel a strong connection to this family and their painful story, especially those who are parents of young children themselves. Imagine if it were your family, how would you like strangers to send help?! Please go to their website, made by one of their friends, and consider making a donation to help their family. I’m sure even $5 or $10 will help. I will be making a donation myself. Collectively, perhaps our gestures will help ease their pain just a little bit.