I realize I think in extremes. I'm not late to this realization but it tends to darken perception.
I'm writing in the midst of a power outage. We had a bad thunderstorm an hour or so ago. And as is the way of it, I do not have water stockpiled or a back up generator for the house utilities. Oil lamps, yes. A propane mini-stove, yes. Normally I keep water on hand but in summer, who needs backup?
Maybe being brought up with the possibility of nuclear disaster/and the Fatima end of the world scenario - a distinct possibility reinforced by the Catholic school system on a regular basis - had something to do with this bleakness of outlook.
So I think: what happens if the power never comes back again? OMG freezer and contents?
Meanwhile I have this battery back up in the office - thus enabling internet and laptop, good for an hour or so.
I remind myself this is not the end of days. Even though, seriously, it feels like it.
I remind myself how fragile we humans are, how dependent on the niceties of the power grid, the internet, water, fuel.
And the antidote: Right now, I am safe, housed and coffeed.
I actually like power outages, usually. They are a time of enforced quiet and respite. I might not feel that way if it were freezing, but otherwise, they're fun for a little while.
ReplyDeleteI'm up at my Tigeen where solar rules & working away on my novel SAW. Fun. Yes.
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So, fr the time being you have all you need.
ReplyDeletePower outages here in S.W.Spain are frequent due to an antiquated infrastructure. Everyone outside the town (like us) gets water from deep wells, drawn up by large electrical pumps. So, no power, no water, nada.
I fill a thermos jug every morning with boiling water for coffees and always keep in 5L bottles of healthy water.....just in case.
Yes i'm on electrical pump 4 water too. Must get into different routine in am & stockpile cold & hot water. Tx 4 tip!!
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You are safe, dry & comfortable and coffeed. And the best part.... soon it will be holiday time!
ReplyDeleteMany best parts. I 'm glad the Tigeen is free and the writing muse returned.
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Our recent tropical storm reminded people in areas of the Big Island of Hawaii that maybe it's not such a good idea to live off a dirt road with big, shallow rooted trees towering 100 feet right next to the electric lines and with no water lines or sewers.
ReplyDeletePeople moved into this area because land was cheap, and now the struggle for survival is on.
We live in town but will no doubt be impacted by all this.
You mention "how fragile we humans are". Indeed. It's why, whenever I think about it, I am astonished at how many of us make it for a long time and what body and mind can withstand.
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I was once without power for a week, in '63. The neighbors had a freezer full of moose, pretty good eating for a week for a 16 year old.
ReplyDeleteI don't think the 'end of days' will happen, at least not in the biblical, apocalyptic sense. Something, eventually will happen, but I doubt it'll be cataclysmic.
But, if it did...who wouldn't want to be there to see it?