Furnaces and Onions

In this world of High-speed internet, cars that warn you of what is all around you, and the spices from around the globe hanging out in your kitchen cabinet as if it's normal, I ask us- what about furnaces and onions?

So many of the things that make our lives what we consider livable- modern conveniences- are things we don't think about until they don't work. Then we have a tendency to bemoan their brokenness as if it's a personal affront. And then there are the simple things that are widely available that offer us so much.

I was raised partially without some of the basics like electricity and running water (which I am thankful for and have noticed and appreciated many times the resulting practical resilience such an upbringing gifted me).

It's been decades since I have been without lights and warmth at the flick of a switch or hot water with a turn of a tap. But that doesn't mean that I take those things for granted.

That glorious moment when you step into the hot shower and feel the incredible sensation on your shoulders.

That letting go of tension when you lay back into a soft bed.

That moment of snuggle when you pull on your warm sweater/jacket/hoodie.

The relief of drinking a glass of clean water.

This is some seriously good stuff.

When my husband and I got serious about each other, we had lots and lots of conversations about many things (which won't surprise anyone that knows us). He was raised in the Southern US, which has (or had- the world is changing quickly these days) a culture of traditional family values and gender roles. One day he asked me very seriously, if we were to get married, what was it that he would need to provide for me, as a baseline? I thought about this and told him hot running water and flush toilets. Those were the things I didn't really enjoy living without. I have no idea what he was expecting me to answer, but I suspect it wasn't that.

He had said baseline.

And wow, let me tell you, he has delivered. Every time I step into a hot shower, I revel in it. There is nothing quite like warm water.

Honestly, if he were to ask me that again, in this 22nd year of partnership, I may add a couple more items, like a good shepherd dog and room for my arts and crafts (both of which I have). It was in our marriage vows to always support each other's personal growth.

For once I’m not going to segue this into a suggestion to be kind to yourself.

Instead, I ask you to marvel at what you have.

The ordinary things that if they were to suddenly disappear, you would miss dearly.

Like furnaces and onions.

Sending love,

Sarah