Storms Can Make Us Grateful

 

The neighborhood woke up this Labor Day Monday morning to all the signs of the thunderstorm that blasted through late yesterday. From random dead leaves and small sticks to huge sections of large trees, the wind certainly left its mark everywhere.

But the morning air was cool and the sun was shining and people were out and about doing what they do on a holiday. Dogs were being walked, strollers were being strolled and folks were beginning to clean up. Chainsaws buzzed and leaf blowers roared and life was on its way back to normal.

As far as I could see, our neighborhood was lucky. No trees fell into a house. Any loss of power was quickly restored. We were all snug in our little homes during the storm. Such moments always make me think of those who have no home in which to be snug and whose damaged homes take much more than a rake and a leaf blower. Such moments always make me think of those who do not have friends to lean on and resources to draw on. Such moments always make me grateful.

In moments such as this, I join the Psalmist who writes, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Even the storms can make us grateful. Even the storms can make us generous toward others.

Peace.