For days before the “Blizzard of 2011,” I interacted with a number of people from friends and neighbors to random strangers. Everyone seemed to have something to say about the storm.
Some were skeptical. “They don’t know crap about predicting these things. They never get it right…”
Others were apprehensive. “Geez, I’m not sure what I’d do with all that snow. I mean, I guess I’d be ok, right?”
Then, there were a surprising number of angry people. “”God, I need this like a need a hole in the head. Another damned storm. I hate this.”
Once in a while, however, I’d run into someone who seemed simply delighted by the prospect of being snowed in for a couple days. “I love it when we can watch all the white flakes flying across the sky from our warm window! And then we get to go play in it when the sun comes out!”
So, the storm came and went and yes, it was The Big One they expected it would be. While there were some real inconveniences for a small number of Chicagoans, most of us got home early enough before it hit, stopped at the supermarket for extra treats and grabbed a video to boot. When the sun came out, neighbors came out to cross country ski, shake their heads and smile and help each other dig out.
We survived. And how quickly we forgot about the feelings we had about the storm before it came…
One of the things I am so grateful to have learned in my time HERE is that my attitude really does matter. Not just for myself and for what I manifest for my personal well-being, but also for what I create for the people around me. I actually have an impact on the world whether I like it or not. Whether I choose to be conscious of it or not.
What a difference it makes in our world when we share hope, joy and excitement with those around us instead of fear, anxiety and anger. In fact, you have a unique gift to share with those around you in every situation, in every moment!
So, please remember this: The words you use matter. You matter. You matter to me.
Jeffrey Sumber is changing the world, one relationship at a time. For over two decades, Jeffrey has worked to understand the human experience from as many angles as possible. As a successful psychotherapist, marriage counselor, and life coach, Jeffrey has worked with thousands of clients who strive to live their best lives.
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What a nice reminder! I also liked the energy early Tuesday evening when everyone was trying to make it home before the storm hit. Suddenly everyone was on a more equal playing field because we had a strong connection—getting home before the storm! :)
Good post!
The first time I ever bought food for being snowed in, I felt that connection. I also felt an odd connection while being one of the lone drivers on an empty street at night before the storm hit. It’s an eerie calm feeling.
Blizzards are pretty afterwards. It’s an initial shock the next day to see smooth untouched snow with ripples from the wind.