November 5, 2012

Sandy

We lost power as Hurricane Sandy hit on Monday night and got it back at 4:00 am on Saturday. We had gas and water, so we cooked and watched movies, made trips uptown occasionally to charge our computers and check our phone messages. We were fortunate, overall.

What I’m filled with now is gratitude. I’m grateful for warm showers and light in the refrigerator and to be back in contact with the rest of the world. I’m reminded that these conveniences are gifts, and gifts that many around the world do not have regular access to. I should not take them for granted, and remember that I am enormously privileged in the world.

This was a reminder that I am small, and that the life I have built is fragile and largely out of control. I felt for a short period of time in a relatively painless way, the lack of control and instability that many feel their entire lives.

Of course, many were not so fortunate, and are still struggling to get by. There are many ways you can help out. Donate to Episcopal Charities. Here is another list of ways you can help with donations or, if you are in the area, volunteer your time.

Finally, we are called to give and act out of a sense that this life is not completely ours, that we earned very little of the conveniences and comfort and stability we enjoy. We are stewards of these things, fortunate enough to be born in the United States. In light of this, there’s no excuse for not giving generously.

Editor's note: Episcopal Relief and Development is also providing services in the areas damaged by Sandy. Learn more here