Auto Focus

Source: dfw.cbslocal.com via Lisa on Pinterest

Ever have experiences in life, where life becomes so clear, even if it's only for a few moments?  Like the auto focus button of a camera, things are blurry, but in an instant, they become crystal clear?  Last night, my auto focus button was engaged, and life for a little while was so beautifully clear.

Last night for 4 hours, we endured some terrifying weather.  Looking straight up at the sky, you could see the instability of it all.  Tornados popped down all around us, and the threat of them lingered even longer.  I thank God for the talents of my husband, and his ability to guide us, as a whole community, safely through.

Being married to a meteorologist, he will always be working in times of inclement weather.  Last night was no different.  His final words before leaving for work yesterday were "Be safe, I love you."  The "be safe" aspect was new.  I can't recall him saying that part before.  Those 2 tiny words alerted me, this was going to be different and dangerous.

It was indeed both, different and dangerous.  At a time when I should have been coming undone, I had instead a beautiful clarity.  In the midst of what should have been fear, was calm and love.  The beautiful thing about people, is that they love and they care.

My sweet niece has been visiting us, and she has been building a beautiful bond with my girls that was only strengthened through last night's events.  I trusted her fully, and she cared for my babies as if they were her own.  We had been mentally preparing ourselves for last night.  We talked about scenarios, preparations, and plans.  She asked me, how I do this alone.  I said, I'm never alone.  God has always placed someone with me through the worst storms.  I also shared with her, that someone always calls, texts, emails, or finds someway to check on the girls and I, and they make sure we are safe.  In doing that, they also let us know that we are loved and cared for.

Yesterday, love helped auto focus my life.  I know I have been blessed with a strong faith, a loving husband, sweet girls, and a large extended family, but yesterday, the love came from all of the friends I have made here over the past 3 and 1/2 years.

Remember how I told you that someone always checks on me in bad weather?  Last night, the outpouring was constant.  It showed the true depth of people.  It started with my neighbor.  She has a bigger and safer safe room than we have, so we all piled in there.  Those neighbors protected us like family, and they helped us to feel better, stronger, and safer.  I don't know how we would have faired emotionally without them.  The chaos of 4 kids, 4 and under, in a safe room for a LONG time can definitely help take your mind off the sirens, the winds, and the tornados.  Listening to the sweet, hopeful prayers of the 2 older ones was humbling and beautiful.  Thank you friends for your amazing hospitality!

During the time spent hunkered down, I received numerous texts and calls.  Each one expressing their love and care.  Thank you!  Together, we all endured whatever came our way.  Last night was terrifying, yet the outpouring of love was beautiful.

As the sun starts to rise this morning, I think of what is going on in my community.  I'm praying that everyone is ok, that lives were spared, and that homes can be rebuilt and restored quickly.  I'm grateful to all of you who helped to make me feel cared for last night.  It meant the world.  You refocused me to know, that even though my family is spread out far from me here in Texas, that I have a community of people that care so deeply for my family and me.  Thanks and I love you!