Escaping the Bennett Street Fires: A Sober Journey with Xavier Chavez
We were just in survival mode. We had to get out of there. And we did. And now we're here, telling the story. That's what matters.
Imagine finding yourself in the middle of a raging wildfire, where every decision counts and sobriety becomes your lifeline. In this gripping episode of 'This Week in Sparkling Water', Joakim Eriksson and guest Xavier Chavez recount their nerve-wracking experience of being trapped in the Great Fires of Bennett Street. With flames closing in and chaos all around, they share how staying sober helped them navigate through the perilous situation.
The episode kicks off with a recount of their drive down Idaho, Maryland towards the Loma Rica Street area, where the first signs of trouble appeared. As they began to hear loud noises and saw smoke through their car windows, reality hit hard. The Colfax fire was spreading fast, and they were right in its path.
What follows is a series of surreal events—encounters with homeless people on bicycles, rubberneckers clogging the highway, and the eerie backdrop of country jazz playing on the radio. Amidst mandatory evacuation notices blaring from their speakers, they found themselves in a post-apocalyptic landscape. Yet, amidst the chaos, moments of human kindness shone through. Strangers offered them shelter and support, reinforcing the power of community in times of crisis.
Throughout their ordeal, Joakim and Xavier emphasize how their sobriety provided clarity and focus, crucial for making life-saving decisions. The episode also brings lighter moments as they discuss their 'Water of the Week', featuring two apple-flavored sparkling waters from Kimino and one from Talking Rain. Their tasting session adds a refreshing break to an otherwise intense narrative.
By the end of their harrowing journey, Joakim and Xavier reflect on the newfound gratitude for life and the importance of connection and humor even in the darkest times. This episode is a testament to the strength found in sobriety and community, offering both thrilling storytelling and heartfelt insights. Tune in to hear their incredible story and perhaps find a bit of inspiration for your own journey.