It’s been over two months now since Washoe Valley has had a smoke-free day. The California fires and an easterly wind have caused air quality to be in the danger zone most days. Quite often, the dense smoke does not allow me to see the mountain ranges – or even my neighbor’s fruit trees.
It’s frustrating. It’s an unhealthy time for my dogs and me to be outside, particularly attempting any physical exercise.
So where is the silver lining in such blackened skies?
First off, I think of the thousands of people who have needed to evacuate. And then the thousands of other brave souls who are fighting the fires. With that perspective, I say a little prayer that begins with, “How lucky am I? What ways can I be of service today?”
Thousands of uprooted residents from South Lake Tahoe are fleeing down the mountain into Carson City.
I’ll bet at least one of them is looking for my help. Much of life is about reaching out and being available.