...when Hurricane Ike swept through
What we saw next, and over the ensuing days and
weeks, was another example of the power of community and networking. News
channels and radio stations immediately started round-the-clock broadcasting of
key information regarding FEMA sites, Red Cross sites, open grocery stores and
gas stations, etc.
But more importantly, neighbors and strangers came together
to help each other out by sharing food, water, generators, gasoline, and
pulling together to clear homes and yards of debris. Unless you've lived
through a hurricane or a tornado, you cannot believe the amount of debris left
behind by one. Need help rebuilding a fence? A neighbor or friend probably either
knows how to build one or can find someone who does. Need help re-shingling
your roof? Same thing. (Of course, I called my dad--a DIY guru from way back--but
that's what a girl is supposed to do, right? What that man can do with duct
tape is nothing short of a miracle. MacGuyver, eat your heart out!)
I'm very proud to live in this community. Last
week, at the KMWorld Conference, many people came up and asked about the
hurricane and how the recovery was progressing. They told me how they were
keeping all of us in their thoughts and hoping for a quick return to normalcy.
I thanked each and every one of them. It was heartwarming. They also asked how
I could continue to live in an area that is prone to hurricanes. Simple. It's
the people here. Family, friends, and neighbors helping one another out. That's
what community it is all about.
By the way...I always wanted an excuse to use this
title line. Thanks, Ike!
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