Some reflections on this senseless death, which spared the lives of the two young women passengers, thanks be to God. How can we ensure that this is the last in a too-long litany of avoidable deaths?

What can we do to change this behaviour? Can we offer our young people challenges as they enter adulthood? Would an Outward Bound course be one way?

Are alcohol and drugs too cheap and easily accessible? Why not raise the price of alcohol, as with cigarettes? William Booth in the 1890s proved that was a real solution.

What about the high powered cars presently manufactured? What is the effect of the very popular TV programme ‘Top Gear’ on young men, with a thirst for speed and thrills, who watch skillful driving on a track and want to emulate these exploits on the open road? At 22, brains are not developed sufficiently to assess the risks of trying to outdrive a police car, and testosterone takes over. We are raising the age for obtaining a driver’s licence. Do we also need more targeted training for young drivers?

There is no escape from the realities of this fractured world. But there is a place of refuge. God is in our midst. I do need to be aware that God is here and allow Him through me to reveal Himself to His world. Ps 11 (adapted from Brandt).

Please, Holy Spirit, pour some of your wisdom into our young people.

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