Charity (Love) After the Storm

  There are no words, really, to describe the awesome power of the tornadoes that passed through the tight knit communities of Hulaco and Hog Jaw on April 27, 2011. Although, if I try, words like devastating and sickening come to mind. While there are other places that were affected in a more severe way, I believe none other came together like ours.

  I can't tell you how many times  people living outside our little communities have told me that they have never seen people in one area pull together and care for one another like these have. I believe them. 

  In the beginning,  the only means of communication with each other, without getting in our under-gased cars and driving, was through scant cell phone service and battery-powered radios.   A radio station in the next town over, 92.7 FM, made it possible for us to communicate with each other, at least to some extent. The people of that station created a lifeline to many all over North Alabama.

  Many times, friends and even strangers from counties away pulled up in the driveways of the residents'  houses to offer water, food, and other essential items. Some even offered their time and equipment. I know that many were touched by the love and generosity in those same ways.

  While taking water, food and other supplies out to the members of the communities, many found that those who needed help the most were the ones least willing to accept charity. After all, "There are people out there worse off than we are and we don't want to take away from them." In my humble opinion, that resembles charity at it's finest.

  The "hub" of the efforts, Ryan School, was used not only as a place to drop supplies for the victims of the tornadoes, but also a place to sit and eat a warm meal and fellowship, find clothing for the families, and as a shelter for victims to have a secure  place to sleep at night. I'm proud to live in a community where, when needed, we can be our own relief fund!

  We are taught in Romans 12:15  to rejoice with those who rejoice  and weep with those who weep. I believe this is a time that we can do both. Weep with those who have lost homes and people they love. Rejoice with those same ones and others in that they still have their own lives and other friends and family around them to comfort them. May we pray that all who were affected by the storms, no matter what part of the map in which they call home,  find the comfort that only our Heavenly Father can give.