Blackouts show you two things: the stars, and which neighbors knock to check on you.

When the usual systems stop, two things become visible at the same moment: what was always overhead and washed out by streetlights, and who on your road comes to the door to see if you are all right. Both were there the whole time. An interruption only removes the cover and lets you see what is actually around you.

Learn the names of two people on your street this week, before you need them. If the power goes, be the one who knocks, since that is how a street becomes neighbours.