Notes

Nashville Flood Relief - Amazing Tennesseans
Inspired by simply so many involving my fellow Nashvillians, I spent many time this end of the week with flood subjects; people whose resiliency amazes me. I had been humbled, sorrowful and a bit stunned at one time. The reality of loss hits difficult while you are walking along streets that appear similar to third planet disaster areas. We saw people's existence stacked up throughout dusty piles within their front back yards. I saw kids toys and home furniture destroyed; ripped separately by the absolute force of hastening water. I observed cyclone fences with debris embedded so tightly that it looked like an archaic paper mache style.

I saw folks working hard; even smiling - repairing what was left involving their homes plus demonstrating the sort of courage many of us only find if we are stripped with the choice. Any time the pieces have to be collected and reassembled swiftly; without the time intended for tears and sadness and mourning.

My group was giving out ice lotion and drinks to be able to these ravaged communities which seems practically insignificant when experienced with such hopelessness. However, on a hot, dirty mid-day, cold, sweet ice cream or lemonade can seem mighty close to heaven. One family, resting on the ground in a good empty house lay with an enthusiast, drying out the family photos. From the look of the house, that may nicely are already all that will was saved.

Another woman, through both smiles and tears told me an amazing story of the girl faithful German Shepherd, Rebel, barking protectively as we approached. Rebel saved your ex daughter's life. If the waters acquired so dangerously high, this woman experienced handed over Rebel's leash to the particular daughter, and Rebel had "swam the girl out". This dedicated animal had consumed over when this particular woman wasn't able to. Precisely what a story -- and Rebel is just not a puppy. They turned nine upon 9/9/09, she told me. "Rebel is zero ordinary dog; she has a gift. " In all that she'd lost, this woman understood gratefulness in a level that a majority of of us is just not ever be named to.

When asked the awkward "How are you undertaking? " question, t here was only positive responses. "We are fine. " "We're running along quite well. " "We will be lucky. " Sure, "Lucky. " I suppose in the large scheme of issues, there were varying levels of luck or even fate. I wonder if I may have uttered that word if I was within their shoes or boots.

And there I stood - seeing monumental grief and profound appreciation; tears of sorrow and tears of delight and hope. Right now there amidst the broken lives and houses of many that didn't have a lot to commence with; here am I. I, who have got been blessed if I do not necessarily deserve it. My partner and i, who've been given presents which is why I might have been too ignorant to ask. I, with the ice cream in side and my automobile waiting to drive me personally home.

Home to be able to my house within Tennessee. Though I am not a native, and am hold my gulf coast beginnings dear, I are inspired and surprised at the characteristics of individuals associated with this state, and i also have become consequently proud to end up being one of all of them. There are seen cases of the grace capable of your spirit and generosity that goes over and above obligation, and I am better regarding having seen this. I've seen the presence of God through the triumph and misfortune inside the span associated with a devastated town block. I've observed "loving your neighbor" in action. I have seen it inside Tennessee.
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