Mixed Emotions

I received the online statement from my energy supplier.  The electricity direct debit would remain the same as I was in credit.  However the gas payment was to be increased.  My first reaction was something else going up in price.  But then I noticed that I was a huge amount in credit and that according to their forecast of what I would probably use over the coming year I would still be in credit without increasing my monthly payment.  So I decided to send them a nice email asking for an explanation.

Yesterday I received a phone call to 'explain' and when I pointed out that I would still be in credit and that I didn't mind paying for what I was using but didn't see why I should pay for more than I would use.  In the end they left the payment without the increase and also found me a cheaper tariff.  Yeah!

I was in a happy mood for the rest of the day until the evening when I received the very sad news of a dear nephew living in Argentina who died suddenly yesterday.  I remembered when we lived there and summer holidays were always spent at the home of my parents-in-law and all the cousins played together.  Such happy times.  In recent years we have been able to visit them all again and share in memories and enjoy time together with their children and grandchildren.  Last year I became aware of his condition similar to that of my late husband but this sudden news of his death was still very upsetting.

Nephews, Pablo (left) and Esteban (right)

This morning I awoke early (5.30am) still thinking about Esteban my nephew.  I heard a blackbird singing and opened the window to enjoy it more.  It was pouring with rain but above the rain I could hear the loud song of the blackbird singing his heart out and heralding a new day.  The words of the old hymn came to my mind,

The storms may roar without me, my heart may low be laid,

But Thou art round about me, and shall I be dismayed?   

Thank you Lord for your continuous presence.