My house, which faired better than my neighbors, was without electricity for seven and a half days. I probably would have gone crazy, but I grew up in a country that had frequent water and power outages, so I was accustom to such inconveniences.

I’ve been reading a about many parts of Zimbabwe, Somalia, Sudan, and other countries where my most inconvenient day would be considered a blessing. It seems to me that I should be more grateful for the comforts I have. I’m not saying that I don’t enjoy the benefits of my electrically convenience life, but I feel a little perspective is in order.

The last week was a fresh reminder, a small taste of what life is like for many around the world. I do not regret the experience. Rather, I find myself pondering if I need to endure such hardships more often.

Of the nearly 300,000 people who lost power, there are still several thousand without electricity almost 9 days later.