e-dreaming

Here in Colorado Springs, it has been a devastating few days.  Unfortunately, we don't see the end anywhere in sight, as the fires of the Waldo Canyon have swept over the ridge and into our neighborhoods and taken our homes.

"Fire" is a word that will have new meaning for us after this is all over.  We depend on it for so many things, and yet it can be enormously, even viciously destructive when it's out of control.  We've seen it spread in mere hours to take out entire neighborhoods that only hours before were not really considered seriously threatened.  Some of the staff here, and some of our friends and colleagues have had to evacuate their homes, and they remain uncertain as to when they will be allowed to return, or if they will even have a home to return to when this is over. 

Isn't  it interesting how we go about our lives assuming (or pretending) that we are in control of everything, and in an instant, that foolish notion can be so completely dispelled?  Nonetheless, there are certainly things which we have responsibility for, and over which our decisions and influence are most seriously felt.  Sometimes, it is simply how we respond to disappointment, tragedy and loss... or how we approach problems, challenges and adversity... or how helpful we are to others.  While we clearly are NOT in control as we too often pretend, let us be deliberate in our decisions, and in how we use our influence.