This post is part of the Five Minute Friday blog link-up. It’s an opportunity to join up with a community of writers and bloggers of all ages and stages who gather around a single word prompt to free-write, unscripted and unedited, for five minutes.
This week’s prompt :: Observant
If you check out Merriam Webster, you’ll find this definition of observant: paying strict attention: watchful; keen, perceptive.
Here in Texas, we’ve had a tough week. It’s not one we’ll soon forget. I feel like we have to say that about a lot of things these days. However, on the backside of an unpredictable week, it’s also one that allowed each of us to be acutely observant:
- observant of ominous weather reports and record-breaking temperatures
- observant of bracing winds and chilling cold but also beautiful blankets of snow
- observant of angry voices and concerned outrage
In the span of a few days, we observed it all.
Beginning February 11, the extreme winter weather that gripped our state turned our picturesque, snow-covered communities from a blissful winter wonderland into places of scarcity and fear.
Electricity—something we often take for granted—suddenly was in short supply, and as a result, rolling power outages touched almost all parts of Texas.
Many faced long stretches of inescapable cold. Broken pipes, compromised water supplies, fuel shortages, and more remain in the fallout as we finally begin to thaw.
Look and See
There has been much to observe that is heartbreaking, but in the midst of it all, we also see generosity, care, and concern, neighbors-helping-neighbors, heartfelt compassion. As is often the case in the face of tragedy, the best of humanity has emerged. And in Texas, it’s on full display.
It’s an experience I hope we never repeat, but to the God-fearing observant eye, there’s a blessing of hope. And in the chaos, we experience peace as we look on and watch God move.
“Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe even if you were told.“
Habakkuk 1:5
Be sure also to read:
- Resting in God’s Sovereignty: Find Peace in the Chaos
- Finding Light in the Darkness
- Biblical Assurance: God’s Got This!
You Might Also Like:
Five Minute Friday: The Time is Now
Five Minute Friday: Concluding with Hope
Five Minute Friday: Learning to be Present
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Hi there! I'm Trisha, and I'm thrilled you're here! I launched Audience of One to help encourage believers in their faith journeys and navigate the shifting dynamics of the empty nest season. And alongside my friend Marian of How Clever! we share thoughtful ideas, tips and creative touches that will make those around you smile.
Amen Trisha, What a great post, and there was definitely a lot to observe this past week indeed. So very well spoken. Blessings.
Visiting from FMF#6
Blessings to you, as well! Thank you for visiting!
That sounds like quite the experience going on in Texas. We have icy cold temps quite regularly here in BC, and I’m thankful we have a wood fireplace we could use in an emergency. I recently learned that the state of Texas has its own power grid, so it can’t really get power from other states. Hoping and praying the power will be available to all soon! Visiting you from FMF #59
Thankfully, we’re on the backside of it now, but it was a crazy few days. We seldom have temperatures that cold…and also for an extended period…across the state. That, of course, also set in motion all kinds of other problems for generators, who had a variety of problems getting and keeping power plants running. The rolling outages ceased on Thursday, but many are now facing the fallout of busted pipes throughout homes, schools and businesses. It was a worst-case scenario for sure. Many lessons learned along the way. Thank you for your kind words and for visiting!
I just loved what you said especially here: “And in the chaos, we experience peace as we look on and watch God move.”
So grateful for the peace we find with our Heavenly Father. Have a beautiful weekend.
Visiting from FMF neighbor
Thank you, Kelly! Same to you:)
As a fellow Texan, I find this statement to be an accurate one, “To the God-fearing observant eye, there’s a blessing of hope. And in the chaos, we experience peace as we look on and watch God move. “
What a crazy week! I hope you and your family moved through the event with {relative} ease.