Burning Down the House

Late last night the fire alarm went off in our building, startling me out of my not-quite-asleep state. We’ve had numerous false alarms in the three years we’ve lived here, which usually end up being a quick hello with the neighbours.

Last night was different.

It was like an episode of Rescue Me, only I didn’t see Dennis Leary anywhere.

Mark and I got up, moving rather slowly, thinking it was probably just another false alarm. Then we saw the flames on the rooftop on the other side of the building and the adrenalin kicked in.

In my pajamas, I grabbed my wallet and iPhone as someone pounded on our door to leave. My heart started racing.

In front of the building were my neighbours, many of whom I’ve not met even though we’ve lived here for three years. I wondered out loud “if a block party mighn’t be a better way to connect” drawing laughter and smiles.

It’s my default: humour, playfulness, a what-else-is-possible way of viewing life. Yet, even though I have this perspective, sometimes I need a wake up call to remember all the goodness in my life.

Staff from the nearby Red Robin restaurant came down with water and coffee, providing a much welcomed bit of caring amidst the chaos.

Neighbours were looking out for each other, connecting in the dark.

It’s easy to take for granted isn’t it?

Not today.

Today I am grateful for:

• the fact that no one was hurt last night, and the damage was minimal
• Mark and I celebrating our one year anniversary
• the amazing, extraordinary people in my life: family, friends, clients – so much love it’s hard to take in sometimes
• love – pure and simple, messy and complicated – love

Over to you:

Don’t wait for the pounding on the door to wake you up.

Tell someone you love them, count your blessings and be present to the goodness in your life.

Go.