Screaming In the Dark

Today I was in Target,near the back of the store, when suddenly there was a loud bang and then pitch black.  Total darkness.  The disorienting kind where there is not even a shadow and you can't see your own hand in front of your face.  You almost feel like you're floating, and it's even difficult to determine where sounds are coming from.  In a few moments, though not fast enough, the lights came back on and a collective sigh rose from the aisles.

In this darkness, mustering faith in the technology of things like generators, I listened to the comforting screams of other shoppers.

Comforting?  Sure.  You know you aren't alone when you hear other people screaming. I probably should have screamed too in solidarity. The last thing you want to be in total darkness is alone.

I don't think I knew any of those other shoppers. I don't know how much I have in common with them.  But for a few minutes, we shared a common dilemma that for a few short minutes, became all-consuming. 

Can anyone really see clearly in life?  Aren't there things in life that seem like total blackouts, at least at times?  Love? Parenting?  In those times when you feel as if you are suspended in space without direction, isn't it nice to hear from another human?  They don't have to be giving you sound advice - just hearing them screaming because they are scared too can help you get through a scary moment.

I think that's why I wanted a blog like this.  This is me talking (or screaming) in the dark: hear it and be comforted.

And please scream back:)