Water Heater Part 2

So because the water heater died today and of course it being Sunday so I couldn’t get someone into fix it, I was forced to get creative as to how I would have hot water for bathing and doing dishes.

This evening I boiled a dozen or so pots of water to be able to allow my wife and I take a bath. Filled the tub with half cold water and then added the pots of boiling water. Just for a kicker I ran water through the coffee maker to have hot water to add as bursts of warmth for both her and me.

Ya know what?

The challenge of going without the convenience of the hot water heater was fun!

I admit that it looked rather silly carrying boiling pots of water into the bathroom and dumping it into the tub but it worked. My family is bathed and in reality we’ve only had to make do rather than going with out.

I think that’s something I needed to learn about in my current situation in life. Lately I’ve been frustrated, sick (for three weeks), jobless and constantly figuring out how to pay bills for the last few months BUT I’ve only had to make do rather than going with out. Sure I’ve had to go with out all the little extra luxuries but honestly, I don’t miss them.

In today’s modern American society I think that we have lost sight of realizing that there is a huge difference between needs and wants. This experience with having the water heater die on the weekend has provided me with a wake up call: My needs are met. My wants may or may not be realized but my needs are met.

I’ve been frustrated with my situation in life, sharing a multi-generational household because of lack of employment and having to help care for a handicap parent but the water heater breaking has taught me it could be so much worse. I’ve a bed, I’ve food, I’ve clothes and am surrounded by people and pets who love me. How lucky is that?!

Next time you’re water heater breaks enjoy the moment of realizing how truly blessed you are.