|
 |
Thoughts on the NY blackouts I almost chuckled to myself today when I read an editorial in a Miami paper talking about how Americans were so surprised and put out by the blackout, yet blackouts are almost a way a life in many parts of the world. Americans are so pampered that we struggle when our air conditioning is broke, power out for a few days, etc. One of the first things that came to my mind was, "How many families were prepared?" Not for anything major, but who had several days worth of storable food ? Grocery stores were going into wholesale trying to get rid of perishable foods. Imagine if the blackout lasted longer - weeks. Not only would transportation be affected, but the price of food, which all has to be brought in, would rise. What about flashlights, and propane stoves? My parents currently live in Tenn., and almost everything is electric based because of the TVA hydroelectric system. One time, a transformer nearby malfunctioned, causing a blackout in our area. Dinner? No problem. Whip out the sterno, and we finished cooking dinner. In my article entitled "Why Christians should be concerned about current events", I mention that it's a good idea to be prepared for natural disasters and other disruptions of life. I thought it funny that on the news today, a NY official was commending New Yorkers for not looting and pillaging during the blackout. This was only after two days! Give them a week without power and guaranteed water, and then I would be concerned. What about where you live? I live in an hurricane area, where the power can go out during the storms. It's not uncommon for people here to have some form of generator, stored water and food, and a battery-operated radio. I'm not asking you to become a 'survivalist', but your family should sit down and brainstorm about what your family would do if certain aspects of living in America that we take for granted were temporarily or permanently displaced. Remember, Christians have a responsibility to provide and protect their family and friends. Let this blackout remind us that there is more to life than air conditioning, TV, cable, computers, cell phones, and microwaves. The Bible reminds us that we should be content with two priorities: food and raiment. Do you have those? Then you are a rich man; some do not even have those.
|
