The idea for my next blog was a completely different topic than what I’m writing now. The very rough draft is saved for another time. As I tried to write it, the blog words didn’t feel right and weren't flowing how I wanted so I knew it was time to pivot.
This week was another roller coaster. Ups and downs and big feelings. This time it hit closer to home. I’ve lived in my apartment complex in Oakland since February 2015. My son was 2 years old when we first moved in. So many memories of really good times and really bad ones too and all in between.
On Tuesday night I was laying down and getting ready to drift off to sleep when I heard a loud bang on my window. I wasn’t sure if someone had accidentally hit my window while walking by with a bike or what was going on. Then I heard someone say Fire!! I peeked my head through the curtains and saw a big black cloud of smoke coming from the next door neighbors door and windows. I threw on some leggings and a hoodie and woke Damian up and told him to get dressed and we had to go outside quickly. I grabbed my phone, keys and child and went out to the courtyard where the neighbors had come together.
The flames were billowing and I called 911 to make sure the fire department was on the way. I was put on hold and stayed calm mostly for Damian. He asked me why I didn’t grab our electronics and I told him those things can be replaced but not you or me. Gratefully the fire department did come right away and was able to contain the fire. It was devastating to see all the belongings thrown out and all the damage done.. Damian and I played Jenga to pass the time while we waited for the okay to go in our apartment. I didn’t get any pictures of the flames because I was in such shock to be honest. And even a few days later I’m still kind of shaken up by it.
The firefighters were wonderful and didn’t let the fire spread. My apartment which shares a common wall was not touched. I know 1000% that we were protected that night. The only remnants of a recent fire when stepping into my apartment is the smell of the smoke and the chemicals from the foam that was used to put the fire out. No black markings on the wall or roof, no ash, nothing.
God is so good in so many ways. I honestly believe practicing my prayer for protection with my hula halau helped. In class we would recite and sprinkle water all over our apartment. As we watched the fire fighters fight the flames I was just praying and so grateful that everyone got out safely.
I’m so grateful we are okay and our apartment was spared. Damian and I will probably still be processing this experience for a while. I learned a few lessons that night. Always be prepared. Even having an extra change of clothes for us in the trunk would've been good if we needed to evacuate and stay somewhere else for the night. We are protected. My conviction is confirmed that I'm here for a purpose and last but not least, renters insurance is a must.
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