The East Coast was slammed by Hurricane Sandy a week ago. I am most fortunate that my area dodged that destructive weather system. Seeing people struggle in the aftermath is heartbreaking, the pictures and stories of devastation shudder-inducing and a prayer that “there but for the grace of God go I…” (Not that weather systems are hurled at us by a higher power.)

It made me think about self-reliance and just how well I can pull it off. Sure, I can manage with the help of our society’s benefits such as electricity, 24-hour grocery stores and a working car. Take all of that away, and what are my capabilities?

It’s a question that weighs a bit on my mind. But it is one that deserves an honest answer–and no doubt, some remedial learning.