It's All In Here

Little sweetheart, just as I was about to go to bed last night, I heard quite a commotion outside. Curious, the window already open, I removed the screen and looked out. Across the avenue, people were pointing up to the buildings on this side and taking pictures as the sirens of emergency vehicles could be heard approaching. I looked to the right and three buildings down I could see flames bursting out of a window on one of the upper floors there.

Smoke soon filled the air and half a dozen fire trucks arrived, one of them raising its ladder to the roof of our building, as they opened fire hoses on the building three doors down at the corner. I could hear breaking glass and I got dressed in case we had to evacuate. I went across the hall and told both neighbors.

It was very frightening. My whole life with you is here, your pictures all around me.

They had the fire under control soon, in about half an hour. There were no serious injuries. They closed this block to traffic for more than an hour and then slowly began to peel away until everything was returned to relative normality. It certainly gave me perspective. All the stupid little things I worry about. And it gave way to a sense of greater gratitude.

I was so stirred up I couldn’t get to sleep until after 5am. The birds were already singing sweetly at my window. I said our prayers and finally lay down to rest. Grateful for you, my angel. You, who always keep me safe.

With all my love.