January 16, 2023

Water and Friends

I survived the weekend from hell.

I know never to ask, “Can it get any worse?” Don’t ever ask such a silly question. Of course, it can always be worse.

For instance, had I not had electricity I wouldn’t have been able to melt snow efficiently.

I still would’ve found or made a way.

Around noon today running water was restored. After washing dishes, Maggie and I enjoyed a warm shower. I caught up on errands in town and refilled twelve gallons of water, you know, contingency. Tonight, I turned on the faucet to wash my hands and felt wild gratitude for running water. I thought of mamas in other countries walking miles to tote water for their families.

And I pray.

I received a phone call from a man I’ve worked with previously. (No, he’s not available. He’s happily married. I know y’all will ask.) Hearing his voice was good for me today. He had a reason for calling; we discussed the reason and then we were on to other topics. I don’t remember exactly what was said, but it was concerning my personal writing, publishing, all the ins and outs, none of which I know anything about in detail. This man who hates people (his words) tells me he will do graphics, design, whatever I need for books, and it won’t cost me a dime. Nada.

“Few do that anymore, give without expecting anything in return. I do, give. I love to give, absolutely zero expectations. I can’t believe you’re generously offering this to me.”

And he means it.

I know when life is tough to look up, things are about to get interesting.

I’ve had two phone calls in four days. Both the most positive people, encouraging me. And they have no idea of the rodeo going on out here in Hoback.

My tight circle? They may be hundreds of miles away, but they loved me where they were and where I am. They seem to think there might be something special about the old gal. Well, I tell ya what, I KNOW each of them are extraordinary individuals loving on mama this weekend, when mama needed it most.

When water doesn’t run, when the sun doesn’t shine, and there’s a lack of humanity in every direction, God is good, so good, and meets us where we are along with some pretty rad friends.