The Ice Storm Cometh! (And Taketh. . . Power!)

• January 31, 2009
• Lee H. Baucom, Ph.D.
• no comments

The week started like any other. The kids headed out for school on Monday, with a little snow on the ground. I worked on Monday, writing and consulting. Then Monday night came. And boy, did it come! We awoke Tuesday with ice coming down, well worse than ice — freezing rain.

The schools canceled classes early in the morning. We had already been awake to find that out. Then, at 7:10am, I heard my cell phone’s tone when the charger is disconnected — except I hadn’t unplugged it! Then I heard a series of pops from around the neighborhood. The ice had built up too much on the trees, and the branches were giving way. Then the powerlines were giving way. And now you know: we were in the dark!

There are hundreds of thousands without power. My family is just one of many. So, after thinking it through for a few hours (along with the power company telling everyone that it could be a week to 10 days until the power was restored), we took a few things and moved into my office. Fortunately, my office is located in an old house, so we have basic home furnishings. We are truly fortunate compared to the many that are in shelters.

Our house grows colder and colder. The days grow longer and longer. It was just a few short months ago that we lost power for 8 days when the remnants of Hurricane Ike came through town.

So, my daughter decided that maybe God was trying to teach us a lesson (don’t we all wonder when we are having tough times?). My wife said immediately, jokingly (sort of), “Yeah, God’s telling us to move!” My thoughtful daughter responded, “No, I think God is telling us we take too much for granted. We should be more grateful for what we have and should be thinking of others less fortunate!” Ah, my wise daughter.

Now, forget whether this is God teaching a lesson. The lesson is still true. We too easily get used to what we have, and take it for granted. Sometimes, tough times can remind us of this.

Tough times in marriage are no different. The struggles often make us appreciate the good times even more. Tough times pass. Tough people move through them.

For all those cold and in the dark, my thoughts and prayers are with you. For all those in difficulties, including marital difficulties, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am thankful for moments that remind me of this (even if I am also hoping for power SOON!).

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