Tonight I am sitting in a warm (well, slightly drafty) house while outside, the night is clear-skied and a cold 20 degrees (heading down to 18 before the night is through). Today, during the day, I saw a thermometer reading of 14 degrees even though the sun was shining. The wind, coming straight out of the north, was so cold that only a few minutes outside brought a serious chill even when wearing multiple layers of clothing. The date is January 6th and we are barely into “real” winter since normally, the really cold weather here in North Texas comes in February. But, alas, as of now, there have been two major winter blasts, the first of which literally shut down the whole area for almost a week with icy-slick roads, and then this one, which is bringing the coldest temperatures in recent years.
Meanwhile, it will be 72 degrees in Los Angeles tomorrow…
I realize that these cold temperatures are nothing in comparison to the storm that is hitting the middle of the country and all up through the North East. These 14 – 20 degree days and nights are hardly noteworthy since we have no ice and snow. Still, these low temperatures have everyone here scurrying quickly from their cars to buildings or huddled up at home, waiting for a reprieve.
I am marveling at what a profound impact weather has on all of us, despite major advances in many other areas of our lives. Almost everyone has a personal device for communicating and computing, medical science has conquered several major diseases, we are sending spacecraft off to distant solar systems, and yet our lives grind to a halt when Mother Nature decides to drop temperatures and add a little moisture to the mix.
Talk about being reminded of how powerless we truly are.
I have heard that in Alcoholics Anonymous there is a saying that goes something like this: If you think there isn’t a power greater than yourself, then just stick a knife into an electric outlet. You’ll soon see otherwise.
I would say something along that same line about our measly selves in comparison to extreme weather conditions. If you have ever wondered if there are forces in the world that are greater than you are, then just experience one a major winter storm or a tornado or a tsunami. Talk about setting the record straight. Mother Nature will quickly clarify who is boss.
Of course, there is some comfort in recognizing that dangerous weather conditions can and will trump people’s incessant need to keep going and going and going. Sometimes a little help from an outside source provides space for reflection, relaxation and just plain ole couch vegetation. Those side benefits do the body, soul and mind a lot of good, now and again.
So, I am enjoying this blast of Artic air that is keeping me indoors, under a blanket and drinking hot tea. After all, when I return to LA in a few days, the sun will be out and the weather mild, pulling me outdoors to engage in physical activity.
Until then, I’ll wrap my blanket a little tighter around my shoulders and enjoy this time of quiet and solitude. Life could definitely be a lot worse.
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