The fiery event that unfolded before our very own eyes yesterday was nothing short of biblical proportions. As we were literally escaping the searing flames and rumbling billows of black smoke and flying ashes, it felt very surreal for Cherise and me. Yes, that’s right, surreal, meaning to have an intense reality of a dream or something of the sort.
The eyes of my heart kept reflecting to the poignant words written in the book of Habakkuk, “…Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days – you would not believe if you were told” (Habakkuk 1:5, NASB).
I don’t think I would have ever believed that parts of our very beautiful town would be engulfed within the powerful flames of a fire. Sure, fires have been around most of us during various spans of our lives. But very few of us have actually experienced the burning touch of its devastating flame to the inward and intimate parts of our lives. And when I refer to flame, I am not speaking of a boy or girlfriend who we’ve had passion for, but I am referring to a flickering enemy – one that intends to cruelly destroy and mutilate every part of who we are.
As for Cherise and me, we are receiving many conflicting reports about our lives. The odds are not in our favor. In all likelihood, our home, business and condo might have burned to the ground, greater than 50% in our estimation due to empirical knowledge (actually being there and inhaling the toxic smoke around us), news reports, videos, etc. However, other recent reports today show that one or even all three structures might still stand among the burnt ashes of other homes and commercial property surrounding them.
Frankly, we do not know for sure what material evidence exists in our lives. And right now, we do not want to speculate. Regardless, we have the value of our faith, family and friends, including Bill and Shellie Speer who have taken us into their home since we’ve been under mandatory evacuation.
In the Bible, fire oftentimes symbolizes judgment and/or purification. Perhaps this symbol of purification applies to various aspects of spiritual renewal and rebuilding our lives or learning how to grow more dependently upon God. I gladly embrace these perspectives.
Yet, in this case, there is much speculation that this fire has been started by an arsonist or possibly a strategic ban of arsonists. Why not? Over 20 fires have emerged in the state of Colorado over the past month or so.
But that’s not the point of this blog. I am not trying to make philosophical sense out of tragedy nor am I trying to guess the ways of God right now, nor am I trying to dig up the underlying cause to the horrific circumstances that have, frankly, plagued Colorado Springs.
I want to speak of the pragmatic aspects, as to how the community of Colorado Springs is responding against this seemingly post- apocalyptic event, the kind that does not discriminate between person, building, business and/or landscape. The people of the community are truly rallying with love, compassion and service. Many are going far beyond the usual for those who are experiencing pain and have experienced a life-crisis of loss, such as this.
Cherise and I feel the outpouring of love. And we plan to reciprocate our leadership and love, but first, after we find out what the extent of damage has come to our lives. Before we can help others who are broken or who are pin-point focused about change, we need to know more concrete things about our own lives. The good news is that it will not take us long to figure out our circumstances (1-2 days), and we are going to be open to serving others as well, as I reference real estate as part of this current need.
The supply chain in housing has just diminished. This means the demands for housing have just increased. Colorado Springs will rebuild, the economy will actually flourish under this construct, and most importantly, I sense our community will grow closer because of this tragedy.
Practically, our business is still operating, because of our group of Colorado Springs Realtors and staff, and because of our culture, which is technologically inclined to paperless operations and progressive strategies about real estate and people, in general.
Right now, Cherise feels like she is still under anesthesia after surgery since the Waldo Fire events rushed through Mountain Shadows late yesterday afternoon. As for me, I also realize the trauma that has intruded into our lives, yet Cherise and me, are steadfast in faith, and hopeful about brighter and less smoke-filled tomorrows.
We pray the events that we would not believe if we were told will lead all of Colorado Springs and other observers throughout the world to brighter places of illuminating hope and grace.
I have so much to say, but realize I have worn out the keyboard on this blog. Cherise and I and the agents and staff of Selley Group Real Estate, LLC love all of you and appreciate your acts of kindness, patience and love towards us. We are looking forward to helping you during this season of change!
To purchase Colorado Spring Real Estate, feel free to contact our Colorado Springs Realtors at Selley Group Real Estate, LLC: 2139 Chuckwagon Rd, Ste 210 - Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919 - 719. 598. 5101
All agents affiliated with Selley Group Real Estate, LLC are actively licensed in accordance to the laws of Colorado.
Portions of this article are written by Gordon, as framed by the expressed opinions of Cherise, but not proofread.
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