This morning, I had a post queued up how participating in social media can lead to earned media coverage. And then I discovered that someone broke into my home last night. Needless to say, nothing is going quite as planned today.
But, I did recall a valuable lesson that I thought I’d share: The things that matter most in life aren’t our electronics. Or even ON our electronics. I know that seems obvious, but in our always on, always connected lifestyles, it feels like our tech toys are imperative. And, while we were very frustrated — and totally creeped out — that my husband’s laptop was stolen and both our iPads were taken (in addition to our bikes, a set of golf clubs and a few other miscellaneous possessions), it’s not the end of the world. They didn’t steal the baseball bat we keep in our living room that guests at our wedding signed in lieu of a typical guestbook. They didn’t swipe our photos or art. They didn’t take my one-of-a-kind antique chandelier. Thankfully, they didn’t take the only good photos I have of my grandparents. And, most importantly, though the person was inside my house as we were upstairs sleeping, we weren’t physically attacked or harmed.
As I’m writing this, it feels like an odd blog post. But, I think it’s also cathartic. My personal space was completely violated, but at the end of the day, the jerk didn’t take anything that couldn’t be replaced. He didn’t take anything that I can’t get back. So, while I probably won’t sleep well tonight, at least I know that I still have what matters most.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
I can’t even imagine being in the house while this was happening – glad to hear you’re no worse for the wear. And the baseball bat guest book is a great idea! My wife and I had rocks signed that now sit in a vase in our guest room.
Thanks for this perspective, and thanks for meeting up in person on Saturday.
–Jeff
WOW. Thanks to you for sharing such a raw moment. You hit the nail on the head: what matters most isn’t the “stuff.” No one can steal your memories (but I’m glad the bat was still there.) I send you a giant virtual hug and I’m thankful that it wasn’t much, much worse. As someone who has been personally violated before, I know how hard it is to shake that feeling – but I also know that by reaching out and sharing the POSITIVE that you’ve seen out of this horrible incident, you’re taking the first step toward controlling your own space, and perspective, again.
@KelleeMagee I used to blog a lot more about random things like this. I miss those days. This seemed like an appropriate time for a personal post. Plus, it was a bit cathartic for me to write it and realize that things could have been much, much worse. Thanks for taking the time to read it!
@JeffBC94 I LOVE my baseball bat. We have it on a shelf in our living room. Today helped me realize just how important it is to me. It’s irreplaceable. Your rock idea is fun, too. I love hearing how people get creative with their weddings. Such a fun idea! Looking forward to seeing you in-person again soon!
Incredible. So glad you and your husband are safe, Heather. This is a great reminder that (most) of our physical possessions don’t matter all that much in the grand scheme of things.
Definitely a good reminder as to what matters most in life. Sorry you had to go through that, though.
Really glad you and Mike are OK.
Wow. Thank you for sharing, I’m so so happy you two are okay. Screw the electronics, I’m so relieved you guys didn’t happen to wake up to go to the bathroom or anything while this was going on. Big hug from LA!
Just saw this. I’m sorry you had this happen to you. It’s frightening and upsetting to know someone was in your home while you were asleep. I’m just glad you are both alright!
Great post and attitude about the awful situation that happened to you guys. So glad that you are all ok.
This is a very inspiring post to read, especially with the intruder and theft so fresh in your mind. Thank you for the reminder of what we can really be grateful for in life. I hope your week is only up from here!