Living next to construction: sometimes you just have to let go

Not one, but three dirt packing machines at once!

Last week the dirt-packing machines, so close to my house and so many in number (one in front, one on the far side, three between my little house and his what the neighbors call “the in-your-face construction project”) created such a nightmare that I literally did fall to my knees . . . but not without calling the code violation officer first.

No one answered. I left a message, voice shaking, stating my name and address as clearly as able, then I pretty much fell apart. “Please come by. My walls are shaking; the vibration is terrifying.”

excavation in front

Within half an hour, the noise stopped. Perhaps they’ve only stopped to talk. I opened the drapes, raised the cellular shade, and peeked out the window. The machines were no longer between our houses. Was it from my phone call? Did the code violation officer stop by?

I went to the front door and looked out. All machines were now parked in front. I couldn’t see any workers. Their trucks were gone. It was only early afternoon– not even close to stopping time. I stepped outside.

Suddenly thunder roared, jagged silver sliced through the sky, and heavy, penetrating rain fell continuously. Wind blew, trees swayed, and I danced!

Rain filed all his little holes.

Even the sidewalk hole was filled.

I raised all window shades, opened windows wide, and sang out loud, “Hallelujah!”

In that moment when I thought I couldn’t bear any more, all that aggravating vibration and noise was replaced by wondrous music of thunder, a splendid light show with lightning, and the air and dirt was washed clean with magnificent sprays of rain. I put on my rain jacket and went for a walk.

Sometimes, when it’s more than I can bear, mysterious forces seem to step in and handle it for me. At least for the time I need it most.

Till next time, I’ll still be dancing with the endless construction and Skating Thru whatever challenges come my way. How about  you? Got any new challenges?

Previous articles in “Living next to construction” series:

• Practicing yoga with construction noise 
• Dancing with my devil:  winter construction
• Footers & foundation in winter construction
• Snowfall doesn’t stop the winter construction
• Effects of construction noise
• Gifts of Construction:  Gift #1
• Gifts of Construction: Gift #2
• Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
• Living next to construction, weeks 1-19
• 19 reasons to leave when construction begins next door
• National holidays don’t apply to contractors
• Living next to construction: and the beat goes on and on and on . . . .
• Living next to construction: “When does the noise stop?” (LOL)