Age is no barrier to learning or wisdom. Even the youngest among us can offer profound insights.
My daughter Kelley lives in Western North Carolina where the whole area from a major city to small towns were devastated by Hurricane Helene. I was talking to her about her losses and the damage in her area. Like any father I wanted her and her family to come to Charlotte until at least power, cell service, water, and sewer service were at least restored. She said politely that she was staying. “Dad, you have to understand everyone has experienced loss. Mine is minor compared to some, and major compared to others. But we have one thing in common, we have all experienced loss.”
Kelley’s words resonated deeply with me. She spoke of her community’s shared experiences of loss and the collective spirit of resilience. Despite the overwhelming challenges, there’s a remarkable beauty in the way people from across the United States are coming together to help. Politics seems to have taken a backseat, and aid is pouring in. For every heartbreaking story, there’s an inspiring act of kindness.
Now I understand why she and her husband chose to stay. They’re exhausted at the end of each day, juggling childcare, work, and home repairs. But as Kelley says, “We’re not alone.”
I believe that countless others in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas are facing similar hardships. Yet, acts of kindness are overwhelming every community. Perhaps this tragedy can serve as a catalyst for a nationwide shift. Let’s use the example set in North Carolina to create a culture of compassion and support for our neighbors, not just in times of crisis.”
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