The television is currently limited to children’s channels and stuff recorded on the fake TiVo. I’ve topped out on my ability to absorb or handle any more news about the devastation in Katrina’s wake.
I did a lot of things today. None of them seem very important at the moment. Except one.
I walked outside late tonight and realized that Fall is on its way. The night air wasn’t just cooler than usual, it smelled different. Crisper. The leaves are starting to blow off the trees. The skin on my arms broke out in goosebumps while the little hairs all reached up to touch the breeze. I turned towards the big maple out front, trying to make out the individual leaves (wondering if they were changing color), and glanced up and realized that the sky was clear and teeming with stars. I stood transfixed, cold forgotten–everything forgotten–feeling very much a tiny but integral piece of the world for a moment.
Take some time to look at the stars this weekend. And don’t forget that The American Red Cross is accepting donations towards hurricane disaster relief and every little bit counts.
You must live up north or something. When I walked outside tonight, I felt the familar waft of humid Houston air! You are so right about taking time to appreciate our life as we have it. Living pretty close to LA and watching what has happened and the people fleeing to our state, it has really made me think about how blessed we truly are. Thanks for putting that so eloquently.
Katrina has really done it… my wife is in Baton Rouge helping around in the hospital in LSU, she explained the situation there.. its too bad..
The situation in the southeast is so heart breaking. I hope more help comes for the refugees soon. I am reminded that the little things don’t really matter and how blessed I am.
That was really pretty and eloquent. I love to stare at the stars and get the feeling of being a small part of something bigger than I’ll ever realize.
I agree…I can’t watch the coverage on Katrina anymore but I think and pray for them everyday. The catastrophe has also made me appreciate all that I have.
Reading your feelings about watching the coverage of Katrina reminds me strongly of how I suddenly couldn’t watch any more BBC coverage of the London bombings and had to turn off the TV. Please know that we in the UK are thinking of you and grieving with you for the terrible happenings of the last few days. Oh, and I love your blog.
There are some things that stop you cold and show you your place in the scheme of things. They are absolutes in this world of hazy gray. Seeing your child being born, visiting a loved one on their deathbed, looking up into the night sky – seeing the destructive power of wind and water. It forces you to see your life and those around you in a new way and realize how precious, and fragile, life is.
as much as i’ve tried to change the channel, i can’t help but watch the news. my heart goes to them and i wish there was so much more i could do than donate money.
Beautifully said.
In times like these, we remember everyone counts, everyone matters as part of the whole, even us.
Peace be with you.
That was beautiful.
Autumn is my favorite time of year, and I did the same thing last night. Just had to stop for a moment and breathe some fresh air, and anticipate fall’s arrival.
I’m helping a friend with care kits, shipping books and DVD’s, and fundraising for Noah’s Wish, an animal disaster relief organization.
Thank you for your lovely words, and your kind and generous nature.