Current…as in an electric current is what’s on my mind today.
Living in a first world nation has us accustomed to quite a few things: high-speed internet, WiFi, running hot water within seconds, electricity without interruption, fridges with water dispensers, mobile phone charge lasting for days…ok, weeks…just to name a few!
On the thirteenth of February, the weather changed to unusually cold for Texas and I knew plans would need to be changed…on the fourteenth of February, snow fell and actually stayed with us.
On the fifteenth of February, our electricity went somewhere…on vacation? More snow fell and at first the kids thought it was so cool…an answered prayer. They made a snowman; it turned out looking scary like a halloween snowman, but a snowman nonetheless!
After two days though, my Texan kids were done with snow days!
Unlike when Covid first hit us, we couldn’t watch TV, couldn’t get online, couldn’t play outside (for long!) and had no electricity multiple times during the day and night.
It caused my kids to think about the homeless more; on their own, they added the homeless to their daily prayers. Through the years, we’ve contributed to various organizations that help those who are homeless, but this is as close to really feeling it/empathizing as the kids have come.
It gave us perspective. Through the lens of this week’s events, the kids and I created a “gratitude list”.
Some things we gave thanks for are: electricity, running hot and cold water, food (anytime we want it), a gas stove/fireplace, winter/warm clothes, blankets (a bus load!), candles, flashlights, battery operated LED lights and the winter wonderland (snow covered yard).
Now that constant electricity and running water and internet and WiFi are back, we give thanks for those things as well. We are also grateful to have use of the oven and microwave. We baked cupcakes and crescent rolls and pizza and then I was back to reheating day-old coffee in the microwave (yah, I’m one of those!).
Which first world items are you grateful for this week? What has you gaining/shifting perspective now?
And here’s another reminder that this whole LOVE and African American/Black History month, my friend at Out of Hiding is offering the LOVE(period) collection BOGO (buy one, get one FREE!). Get a shirt, hoodie or tote for you and someone you love…quick! When you purchase, you’re supporting a local business owned by an African American/Black/Chocolate sisTAH of mine! Let Out of Hiding know that LALIjean sent ya!
Common Day Hero: When I didn’t have an accurate picture of African American/Black/Chocolate life in America, you shared riveting stories of your own experiences. I so appreciate your authenticity, your counsel, your prayers and the way you live ~ full of grace. Uncle Joe and Aunt Rochelle, I dedicate this post to you.
