Let This Be a Lesson to You...And Me (Reflections on the Recent Ice Storm of Central Ontario)

About ten days ago, the region where I live was hit with a brutal storm that included snow and freezing rain, leading to thousands of people without power, and downed trees. In fact, there are still some without power, almost two weeks later.

We spent much of the first day listening to trees and large limbs crashing to the ground all around us. Thankfully, though a few landed in our backyard, the damage was minimal. There are three large branches still there; I don't know why Kathy hasn't moved them yet? I'm kidding of course...one of my upcoming weekend chores I guess.

Travelling was treacherous due to the weather induced blackout and trees across roads and power lines. Not to mention the flooding of basements and damage to houses and cars.

People were lined around corners, waiting for hours in some instances for gas and other necessities. I've heard some stories of people fighting in the streets as they navigate the chaos and the excessive lines for fuel. There was a real panic as people scrambled to deal with the aftermath.

The first day our sump pump back up battery quit so we took turns bailing for hours...it was a great workout but we were exhausted. My son-in-law brought over a generator but then ran out of fuel.

So I was driving around at 10pm in the dark with a neighbour looking for gas. We actually found some and filled up the car and 6 gas cans.

It was seemingly out of the blue that life around here went from normal to chaos...and everyone was in the same boat trying to survive.

But here's my takeaway.

The best part of dealing with the storm wasn't getting a generator or finding fuel, the greatest part was when we looked for ways to help those around us.

I'm not suggesting that we did anything unique here...so many stepped up to offer assistance to others...family, friends, neighbours and strangers...it didn't matter who it was. (No one asked for their political leaning)

My point?

You will always find meaning and purpose when you help someone else succeed.

As I stress in my book, "Vantage Point: Five Perspectives to Live a Better Story" I believe you and I are created to do things...specific things, that at the end of the day are not about us at all.

We are here to benefit others.

Sometimes it's simple gesture that can make all the difference. Our power came on sooner than many, so offering a warm shower, a meal, wi-fi or just a phone call to check in with someone goes a long way. And it reminded me again, that thinking of others , considering their needs and doing what we can to help, is way better than complaining about how bad I have it.

Jesus said that we are here to love God and love our neighbours. Then He designs us in unique ways to accomplish what He has ordained for us to do. I find that very compelling and exciting.

And the Central Ontario ice storm of 2025 serves as a reminder that we are here for others, not ourselves.

Until next time -

Dan

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