Wednesday, April 4, 2007

warmer outside today

shoot, warmer inside for that matter. beats the heck out of the eight days of 24 to 26 degrees high in here in february, know that much.

what friends and family don't understand is how long it takes to recoup. just because it was like 36 in here two days and now it's 60 or more doesn't mean things turn around internally just as fast. enduring the kind of winter we just had takes its toll on the soul.

please keep that in mind if you're helping someone anywhere near the same. it may take months to gather oneself back up before forward steps can be taken. during that time, tactfully, lovingly, *slowly* do what you can to help them make sure the same doesn't occur next winter as well.

hints towards aiding another's survival:

  • nice sheets can double as great curtains, and they serve as draft blockers against the winter breeze.
  • got some old plywood laying around? they might could use it somehow to block drafts, too.
  • got $10.00 burning a hole in your back pocket? smells like caulking and a caulking gun to me. where, for you, it's a drop in the bucket to be spent towards one hour and 45 minute movie, for your friend or family member in need, it very well and most likely represents closer to two weeks worth of eats. your spending it on weatherizing for your friend would be a blessing.
  • tree fall down in your yard? don't take it to the dump or wood chipper it (unless you yourself really need it first). instead, find out from your local dhr who in your neighborhood nearby could turn that wood into lifesaving heat six, eight months from now after it is nice and dry.
  • quick fix? a roll of commercial plastic. cost again represents one night at the movies for one, a lifesaver of a winter to another.

most importantly, just because someone is living differently from you doesn't make them any less of a person. they're just as proud, more likely than not just as aware of where they are at. please treat them accordingly should you approach with offers of a hand up.

gently, incrementally, respectfully, lovingly.....

no matter who they..... and you..... are.

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