We never know, and we take so much for granted!

We never know what could happen in a split second. This last week or so has been a heavy week for me.  The apartment complex across from ours had a terrible fire a week ago today.  12 units are destroyed.  40 people are without everything.  There were 24 fire engines there, it was 98 degrees outside that day.  It happened on a Saturday around 2 in the afternoon.  I was out running errands, the kids were playing with friends and visiting family. Mike was home relaxing.  I am driving home and our road is blocked by fire hoses going across our road...this was very strange to me because there are tons of fire hydrants for both our complex and the one across the street.  I took the back roads home, got in, grabbed Mike and we walked over there.  I was floored! I couldn't believe what I saw. I have never seen so many fire trucks in one place.

I was literally sick to my stomach.  We saw families trying to salvage whatever they could, we saw children with toys tinged with black suet.  It was so heartbreaking.  I told Mike, I need to do something.  I really want to help these people.  I just can't imagine. So, I spoke with the fire chief, he directed me to the complex office.  A lot of the families were there waiting to see what to do next.  Looking around, my heart just broke. I told the office manager, I live across the street, I want to do whatever I can to help. I gave her my contact info.  I went back later once the Red Cross had arrived.  I waited and let her know again, I have lots of people I network with and I want to help.  So, finally, this week, I have gotten a few calls from some of the residents.

Each person just sounds so thankful and grateful. I had one woman tell me today, "You are just Awesome" I told her,well, I am not trying to be, I just want to help.  I can't imagine what they are going through, feeling, nothing.  I told her that and I told her I am praying for her.  It has been very difficult for me. I truly feel God is calling me to help these people.  I have sat and listened to their story, what they need, their tears, everything.  They really need someone to just listen to them.  

I started soliciting donations last Sunday/Monday time frame. Right before the 4th of July. I was floored by how people just stepped up and said, I have this and this...God is truly in this!  The 2 families I have been working with both have found new places to live.  I have heard of several others by just networking that things are coming together for them as well.

We never know when we can just loose everything.  It can happen in a split second.  I also realized something this week. It was my 36th birthday on the 4th.  I realized how I took for granted just 2 years prior having my grandpa there with me for my birthday.  I just always expected him to be there.

Hug your loved ones!