Turning the Chill into Warmth: A Gratitude Journey (Week #3)
Hello Friends!
News spread like wildfire throughout our Lewiston and Clarkston community on November 8th, when Avista Corporation declared a natural gas outage that was set to impact an estimated 37,000 homes.
If you know, you know (IYKYK).
I, however, was out of town until November 11th and the anticipation of returning home filled me with dread.
Why?
Stepping into a chilling home, the aftermath of a devastating incident that disrupted a main gas line, affecting households across the region.
I’ve since acclimated, now relying on a steady rotation of a comforting mug of hot lemon water and the warmth from microwaveable rice sacks.
My husband has always held a fascination with mastering survival techniques for all weather situations.
Upon my return, I found pots of water warming on every stove burner, an electric portable heater diligently warming our bedroom and bathroom, and ceiling fans strategically rotating.
I couldn’t be more grateful for his Ninja-like acuity in figuring out how to elevate the temperature in the house.
During this challenging situation, the wisdom of Shauna Nieguist rings in my ears:
“When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate. And when life is bitter, say thank you and grow.”
Little did I know, this “incident” became the very thing for me to focus on this week…with a twist.
This prompted me to find gratitude and grow, in adversity.
Was I chilled? Yes!
But it wasn’t unbearable. Nothing a favorite sweater and hoodie couldn’t solve.
As I write this blog, the warmth of natural gas has returned to many homes.
I am hopeful that today might be the day when we hear that anticipated knock on our door, signaling the restoration of our pilot light.
If they don’t arrive today, I will embrace tomorrow, Tuesday, November 14th, with immense gratitude if this is when the tireless workers reach our neighborhood.
In light of these circumstances, my awareness has been rekindled, and gratitude has taken root for:
· The intricate infrastructure facilitating the transport of our energy.
· The reliable functioning of our gas heater and hot water heater
· Microwaveable rice bags that provide comforting warmth.
· Steaming mugs of hot lemon water.
· The reliability of electric stoves and ovens.
· My husband for all the comforting things he attends to in our home.
Today, a renewed sense of gratitude embraces me, a stark contrast to the routine taken for granted before Wednesday, November 8th, when this incident unfolded.
I sincerely hope everyone weathered this challenge well.
In reflection, I can also extend thanks for the above-freezing weather during this period, a small blessing amidst the temporary chill.
As you continue this journey of gratitude, transition into the upcoming week with a daily focus on cultivating thankfulness in various aspects of our lives.
Join me in embracing Week 3 of our Gratitude Journey, where each day provides an opportunity to reflect and express appreciation for the positive elements that often escape our notice.
7 Gratitude Prompts for Week #3:
· Nov 15: Focus on the positive aspects of your work or daily activities and express gratitude for them.
· Nov 16: Reflect on your freedoms and rights and express gratitude for them.
· Nov 17: Practice gratitude for the moments of laughter and joy in your life.
· Nov 18: Be thankful for the technology that connects you to the world and makes your life easier.
· Nov 19: Appreciate the diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich your life.
· Nov 20: Express gratitude for the challenges you have overcome and the strength they have helped you develop.
· Nov 21: Focus on the moments of peace and relaxation in your life and express gratitude for them.
May this week be filled with reflections that deepen your appreciation for life's surprising shifts in paths.
To Your Grateful Heart!
Wendy