Life Lately 4.3.17

Ohhh life. You really never know when it’s gonna pull the rug out from under you.

(Or your house)

I got an early birthday surprise last week that’s put a little dent in my plans for the next few months. My roommate called me in the middle of the night while I was in New York last weekend to tell me our house caught on fire because of an electrical issue in our kitchen and there was severe smoke and fire damage. We had to move every single thing out of the house and find somewhere to live within the next few days.

So, now I’m sitting here in a hotel, in a sweatshirt that smells like a campfire to tell you a little bit about what’s been going on over the past few days. You start to realize a lot when your material life is packed up in boxes. You realize more than ever what’s actually important in this life and how unpredictable every single day is. And how nothing can ever be taken for granted. Two of my roommates moved out permanently because their damage was too bad and Rachel and I are currently looking for places to stay while the fire damage is fixed. So, for any of you dealing with a some sh*t you really wish you weren’t right now, here are some things to keep in mind:

Perspective is EVERYTHING

It’s really never as bad as you think – it all comes down to perspective. Luckily the fire only damaged ‘things’ – and things can be replaced.  None of my roommates got hurt in the fire which is a miracle considering it happened in the middle of the night. No matter how bad your situation is, it could always be worse. We are able to eventually move back in when everything is cleaned and fixed. You always have to think of the positive side of things or you’ll drive yourself crazy with the negatives.

You can’t do it alone

Through this process I’ve learned how important a true support system is. Support can come from unexpected places and you truly learn who your real supporters are when things like this happens. Surround yourself with the people who keep you positive and lend an ear to hear you vent.

Flexibility is a must

I’m obsessed with order. I read/check/analyze my daily and monthly calendars religiously and plan everything down to the minute. When life throws curve balls like this it can be a little hard to adjust. But that’s what you have to do – adjust and pivot. Save yourself the hours of complaining and wasted time and do what you need to do to get on with life and get yourself in a better position.

Comparison Kills Happiness

How many times have you thought “I bet (so & so) has never had to deal with something like this”. WELL people, that’s never true. Every single person you know is dealing with their own issues. You really never know what’s going on in someone’s life and the kind of things they’re dealing with. Show compassion for other people the way you’d want them to show compassion for you in your hard times.

The one thing that never changes..

The one constant we have in this life is God’s never ending love for us. He’s always the one thing that gets me through when I’m at my lowest. Life’s twists, turns, and unexpected problems are inevitable, but the comfort of bringing my problems to Him is what gets me through. People will let you down but He is the solid rock upon which we stand and all other ground is sinking sand.

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No matter how big or small the problem is that you’re dealing with right now – know that it’s gonna pass like all the other problems have. Heartbreak, loss, accidents, etc  life always goes on and you come out of it stronger, smarter, and more prepared to face the next thing. Everything is temporary. You learn how to be resilient and how to roll with the punches. How two 100 lb girls moved an entire home worth of furniture over night with a bottle of wine and bubble wrap, I have no idea, but we did it! Also, TIP: renters insurance kids. Get it. Adulting is so fun isn’t it!?

Thanks for stopping by, xo liv

P.s. thank you to my friend Liz and the Bangtel crew for helping me find a temporary place to stay this week – their El Motel in Logan Square is such a fun spot if you’re ever in that area!