Helping Other Grievers In Times of Need and Disaster

Photo courtesy of Emilie Taylor

Devastating Events

Last year at this time, here in the Texas Hill Country, we had devastating wildfires sweep through thousands of acres that changed the face of the land we call home. I saw on the news the images of ruin that the wildfires brought and I heard the stories from the victims of the most destructive fire in Texas history. Their pain and shock of such overwhelming loss was evident. I tried to imagine what they must have felt but my mind wouldn't even allow it. It's impossible for me to understand the magnitude of their grief. My heart hurts for anyone grieving the loss of property, home, livelihood, pets, and loved ones...especially all at the same time. The victims, firefighters and volunteers of massively damaging events, such as the Texas fires, deserve our prayers and support.


Closer Than You Think

Seeing the images through the media put a surreal feeling to these events, it somehow feels distant; but it’s not. The people suffering are our neighbors, coworkers, family and friends; they were my fellow Texans. The close proximity of such devastation is unsettling. There has probably been damaging events close to where you live; resulting from flooding, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, terrorist attacks and more. The victims of these tragic events are not oceans apart from us, they are here, near us and they need our help.


What Can I Do?

What could I possibly do to relieve the pain in such overwhelming disasters? We could all pray and we can all act. The grief of these victims cannot be erased but it can be eased by the compassionate and practical actions of those reaching out to help. Volunteers are always necessary in many capacities; food, clothes, supplies, and monetary donations are desperately needed in these situations. Food and water bottles can also be supplied to shelters, organizations and the firefighters. (God bless the firefighters and emergency workers who risk their own lives in protecting the property and lives of others!)
Photo courtesy of Emilie Taylor


Reach Out

Every act of generosity will help someone in some way. If you are a griever for whatever reason, I challenge you to reach out to fellow grievers in their time of need. Help in any way you can. You will also reap the rewards of your kind acts; your heart will be lighter and your spirit will be stronger as you help another griever.

Hope

There is always hope in the face of disaster.
Photo courtesy of Emilie Taylor