Whenever there is a tragic death, especially of one much too young, there is the understandable search for meaning and consolation. On occasion, mourning rationalization will include a reference to the deceased having “died doing what (he or she) loved.” And that, indeed, happens. It’s not irrelevant. But that phrase was also applied in the recent rodeo accident that claimed the life of 16-year-old Brooke Ann Coats.
To die defending your country or pursuing a selfless cause can be, however tragic, consolingly comforting to those left behind. It’s a legacy moment. We all get that. But to die while skydiving or while riding a 900-pound, bucking bull–after your parents had signed a safety-issue waiver–is different. To die defying safety odds and good sense should not be perceived as an extension of “you go, girl” ambition.