Irene

As we prepare for the possibility of feeling the effects of Irene "up north" I remember childhood years of going through such storms, getting excited over the fact that my mom would be cooking our meals over her special stove with kerosene we purchased at the local hardware store.  Yesterday I was in WalMart - and was quickly transported back by the remembered scents of that stove, the delicious foods she prepared by the light of her kerosene lantern, with water she had collected and stored in every available container.  It sounds difficult, I'm sure it was harder for her than for my brother Nelson and I.  For us it was an adventure!  I loved turning on the kerosene lamps (I still have hers) walking around in the safety of the home she made, in the safety of her arms.  Because frankly, when she was around, nothing could hurt me.  My mom was the epitome of strength in a tiny body.  Someone asked me the other day how I came to be a feminist - my immediate response was, "My mom..."  At a time when being independent was frowned upon, Gloria stood six feet tall!  

I admire her still.  Her security would later become the Lord's presence.  He carried her through hardships - even while she was evacuating her home in preparation for a hurricane in Puerto Rico, with my dad, who was almost bed bound with Alzheimer's.  She was still standing strong!

My mom taught me to be resourceful and tenacious.  So yesterday at WalMart I went into "Gloria" mode seeking any item that could be used during the coming storm.  There are times when I ask myself, "What would mami do?"  Now it's seasoned with, "Lord what do You want me to do?"  Because you see Gloria came to know the Lord and taught me about Him.

So today, if you find yourself afraid of Irene, you have reason to be.  I won't tell you it'll be fine, that it won't be frustrating or scary.  But here's my question to you - "Where does your strength come from?"  The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.  Proverbs 18:10