Whether the Storm...

Growing up, I often wondered what made people live in cities/towns that were prone to natural disasters.  Having only experienced, at most, severe thunder-storms and blizzards, I thought that was enough to deal with. As I became an adult and started traveling, finally getting to know the world outside my own, I began to understand there was little difference from what I was used to as a child and how people in those areas see it.  People can only be where they are.  Those who leave are the ones who can; those who stay - or move to those areas - have their reasons, and they need not be questioned or challenged.

How, though? I wonder about the psychological effect it has on a community who might yearly endure the damage or loss of property, the seemingly daunting task of having to pick up the pieces and begin again.  I do not pity these communities, but rather salute their resilience and resourcefulness in the face of elements out of human control. Those cities and towns I have been fortunate to visit over the years inspire me, because Life goes on.  It must. It is a reminder that we are a part of Nature, whether we realize it or not. Having the gift (or curse) of will is not an exemption from the evolution of the planet we share.

The social constructs we feed into, and inevitably perpetuate, are merely distractions.  They are ill-usions, compared to what really matters.  Yet, despite it all, the natural cycle continues.  Where and how we fit into that is based on what we choose to acknowledge and contribute to the evolution, be it helpful or otherwise.  Nonetheless, we weather the storm, and we continue forward.

To those who are, have been and will be affected by the natural elements: You are forever on my mind and in my prayers. Stay strong, be safe and Live on.

#SmithDonnellE #OnMyMind #Pray4TheNations