PanNotes

Things seem to be getting back to normal even as the loud sounds of generators add to the clatter of chain saws and hammers. Power and water are still problems for many, but I’m assuming that traffic in some areas of the corporate area means people are getting back to business. JPS is busy clearing its many downed power poles and the NWC is moving quickly to restore water to everyone.

Both phone companies say they did well in the storm. The only problem still is that mobile phone owners who still don’t have electricity now have to find outlets wherever they can. Someone is sure to start a business from this need.

The two main dailies screamed at the government for imposing a state of emergency. But just as Portia’s move may have been seen by some as over the top, so too were the editorials. With a week likely added for the election, we can expect blame and shame from all quarters.

I have a different take on Dean and his sideswipe of Jamaica. We looked at the storm from the comfort of my living room because the shape of the patio allowed us protection from the wind and pelting rain. At times it seemed surreal watching trees bend to breaking as the wind howled. At other times it was just a good day to stay inside and enjoy those things we have little time for these days.

Eating dinner outside the night after Dean was perhaps the best moment of all. I looked up at one point and almost dropped my glass of wine. There in all its splendour was the wonder of the universe as it was probably intended to be viewed by human eyes. Without the glare of urban lights, the stars were glorious in their brilliance. I realized then what beauty really is.