I walk into the bathroom and turn on the electric switch. Nothing happens. For three days nothing has happened. I know the power is out. I still reach for the switch. Habits are strong.
The computer is off. I walk past my office and look at the screen. It’s still off. I still look.
I think often about wanting time to read and to write. With no access to Internet and no power for television, this would be a perfect opportunity. But I can’t sit still. I can’t let what might happen tomorrow simply happen tomorrow.
It is remarkably easy to blame the rough-running of the neighbor’s generator for the rough-running of my thoughts. And then to generate a low-voltage current of blame that wears down my motor.
It is hot, I suppose, but exercise will make me perspire anyway. And might help alleviate the uncertainty about when the power might come on. Instead, I wait for what might happen. I wait for a day, then another.
It seems that my agenda is more driven by the tools that are working than I thought. I could be working and resting, following the daylight, enjoying the restoration than can come from disconnection. Instead, I am feeling disconnected.
I am grateful for what I am learning about ingratitude during this time. We have water. We have hot water. We have a grill. We can even use the stove (if I light it manually). We have a frenchpress for coffee. Our house wasn’t hit by any trees.
I read from Acts on Sunday morning. I realized that the early church never cancelled services because the electricity was out. It was the right choice for our church on Sunday, but I’m thinking a lot about how much I depend on the wrong energy sources.
300 words a day 
Rich Dixon
I just saw a FB comment from a missionary in Haiti: “It’s really hot here! We thank God each day for the opportunity to be in this place.”
Then I saw Nancy’s expression of thankfulness that it isn’t winter.
It’s not about “it could be worse.” It’s about being thankful in all circumstances for the power source that never goes out.
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joseph ruiz
Jon, so sorry you are without electricity. When I read your post I realize how convenience driven I am. Rich you are right, though I struggle with that too. In the end whenever I am grateful it does change the way I think. I love how the Spirit never misses a good opportunity to teach; now if this student will just pay attention! I pray you will have electricity soon Jon.
Impressed that you were able to post this.
Grace and Peace
Joe
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Scott Brune
As I also was grumbling and worrying about not having power or water (on a well system) I was directed to read Matt. 6:25-34 in my daily 7×7 devotions that Jon also posts for people to use to be in the word for at least 7 minutes a day. A good smack to the side of the head with these verses changes the attitude quickly, and gave me the peace I needed. No power – No water – No big deal! We still had what we needed and a place to eat and sleep. It does make me very aware of how much I take for granted every day. It was a good reminder of how fragile our modern life really is.
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Cheryl
With more and more modern conveniences I often find myself getting more and more dependent on what man has made, and less grateful of what God has made.
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Jim Hughes
Being without electricity for a day or so is a good reminder alright. But another thing we learn is that because of the way our houses are built, our food is stored, etc. that it really is a necessity, not just a luxury. Hope you have it back soon!
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Jon Swanson
although, Jim, it’s got me thinking about all of those things. Thanks.
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