“Innocent Yet Harmful: A Call to Reflect”

This past weekend was challenging for us in Barrie and the Simcoe Muskoka region. We experienced a heavy downpour of icy rain, leaving us without electricity for several hours. Even as I write, some areas are still in the dark. I remember waking up in the middle of the night to see the electric pole behind our house sparking and exploding. Moments later, the entire neighbourhood was plunged into darkness, and for hours, we could hear trees snapping under the weight of the ice.

With no electricity at home, later in the day, we drove around in search of a restaurant to eat and saw the aftermath—fallen trees blocking roads, cars dented, shrubs displaced by the wind, and damage all around.

Yet, amid the destruction, something caught my attention—the icicles. These delicate, almost heavenly-looking formations were the very culprits behind the chaos. They appeared so small and harmless and even beautiful with a sight to behold, yet they carried the power to bring down trees, damage homes, and disrupt lives.

It made me reflect on the seemingly harmless things in life that, when left unchecked, can slowly lead us astray. That extra scoop of ice cream that spikes my blood sugar. That late-night coffee that robs me of restful sleep. Even the innocent distractions—watching one more episode of my favourite Mexican movie, scrolling a little longer on instagram, reaching for my phone instead of my devotional first in the morning. They may seem insignificant, but over time, they can take me further from the things that truly matter.

Today, as we continue to clear away fallen branches and debris in Barrie and its environs, perhaps it’s also time for an internal cleanup. What “harmless” things have quietly stolen your time, energy, or focus? Let’s take a moment to reflect and realign.

A big thanks to our friends who checked in on us. We also pray for those affected by this devastation. 🙏🏽

Written by Ibukun Ogunsina,
New Beginnings Barrie,
Psychotherapy and Counselling Services.
Website: www.newbeginningsbarrie.com
E-mail: inquiry@newbeginningsbarrie.com
Tel: +1 705 241 8456