Gratitude isn’t always easy

Last night, we had a bit of a disaster. A storm swept through our county, and we had a torrential downpour that caused flash flooding around the area.

Our basement flooded so badly that one of our freezers was floating. Standing on the steps, as far down as I could go without stepping into the water, I could hear our belongings crashing into the water on the far side of the room.

The damage was extensive. I won’t lie— I took about two minutes to cry before I pulled myself back together. Our two sump pumps were overwhelmed and burning out, and both need to be replaced. The water destroyed both our freezers, our washing machine, our water heater, possibly our house heater (given the height of the water) and destroyed an insane amount of personal belongings. I spent hours bagging up destroyed decorations, certificates, artwork, and so many other things.

On top of that frustration, our insurance doesn’t cover water damage. As a young couple signing up for it, we didn’t realize that. We also didn’t realize it pretty much only covers fire damage and jewelry theft. Personal items aside, the cost of the replacements and the cleaners and mold treatment is thousands and thousands of dollars. After exhausting myself cleaning, I lay in bed turning over the numbers and wondering how we’re going to make it work. I still don’t have an answer for that.

But as I lay there, lamenting our situation, I realized I needed to shift my thinking. Yes, we lost things. Things that will make life inconvenient for a while. But there are so many things we didn’t lose, so many things we have to be grateful for.

Thank God, the flood didn’t compromise the structure of our house like it did for some. Thank God, all our fur-babies are safe. Our upstairs is intact and unharmed. Family stepped up to provide freezer space for all the special food that I have to eat and help with laundry. After everything was saturated, Hubby had to take about ten loads to the local laundromat as well, and he’s there now while I rest. Thank God that it’s 70 degrees and not 40 degrees, because showers without a water heater are FREEZING!! Thank God for friends who were quick to offer help when they heard our situation.

We are so blessed.

I don’t know how things are going to work out, and I know that my gratitude will be interspersed with moments of worry as we go through this, but I know that it will get better. I know that God will provide. I know that He will help us through this just as He will help us through the next struggle. Gratitude is not always a feeling; sometimes it’s a choice and a mindset. It took me a bit to get there today, but I’m grateful I was able to shift my thinking away from stress and worry. We appreciate all the prayers and encouragements you all have been sending on social media. Thank you for being amazing and uplifting!