As the winds of Hurricane Helene swept through the southeast, I found myself reflecting on how fortunate we were here in my town. Yes, we experienced some flooded roads and a few minor inconveniences, but compared to the devastation faced by so many of my friends and family in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, we got off easy.

It’s hard to watch the news and see the aftermath of the storm in those states. Homes destroyed, lives uprooted, and communities left reeling from the impact of such a powerful force of nature. I have friends who have lost everything, and the thought of their struggles weighs heavily on my heart.

What’s even more poignant is that some of those affected by Helene are still not in their homes from last year’s devastation caused by Hurricane Ian.  In our fast-paced world, it’s a sobering reminder of how long recovery can take and how deeply these storms can affect our lives. The resilience of those enduring these ongoing challenges is truly inspiring, but the emotional toll is undeniable.

In contrast, our little corner of the world feels almost untouched, a stark reminder of how unpredictable and unfair nature can be. While some of us are just dealing with wet shoes and traffic delays, others are facing heartbreaking losses and the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.

As we begin to recover from Helene, it’s essential to keep those affected in our thoughts and prayers. Whether it’s offering support, donating to relief efforts, or simply reaching out to check on loved ones, we can all play a part in helping those enduring this hardship.

Let’s remember that while we may have escaped the worst of Helene, many have not. Together, we can help restore hope to those who need it most.