The topic on everyone's mind today is the massive blackout that occurred last Thursday afternoon. I was shocked when I heard that it affected 60 million people!

I'm embrassed to say that at our house the blackout found us unprepared. We didn't have batteries for the flashlights and we had no candles other than little tea lights. We were without electricity for 26 hours.

We weren't prepared because we take it for granted that there will always be power and lights. Every time I flip a switch, something happens - lights go on or a motor starts. I just assume that since it always has...it always will.

As last week taught us, that is a dangerous assumption. This led me to think about other dangerous assumptions that we all make and it reminded me of two important lessons:

1. Do not take everyday things for granted. Have you ever twisted an ankle, broken a toe or had some other minor injury? I have, and it made me appreciate the normal smooth functioning of my body, something I usually take for granted. Something as simple as showering takes on a whole new perspective with a broken toe or a sore ankle! Imagine how difficult things would be if something much more serious were to happen.

My point is that we need to be mindful of the everyday miracles that we take for granted - from electricity to the smooth functioning of our bodies.

2. The blackout also illustrated that we need to take steps to preserve what we have. In the aftermath of the blackout, government officials have been urging everyone to conserve electricity wherever possible so as to avoid any further problems. This reminds me that with our health, we need to take preventative measures to avoid any future problems. A good diet, plenty of activity and proper rest can go a long way towards avoiding any personal "blackouts". We are often so busy running our lives that we don't take time to look after ourselves until we reach a point where we need professional intervention. How many trips to the doctor could be avoided with just a few minutes of "maintenance" each day?

So this week's message is to be mindful of the things we take for granted. As 60 million people learned last Thursday - you really don't appreciate what you have until it's gone.

ENJOY NOW!

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