Wilted Flowers

Last night, Jesse and I drove around to find some caches,

which I was totally fine with, because it meant

doing something completely normal.

However, my mind was still consumed

with the damages that are still in my town

and towns all over Alabama.

We drove through Gardendale, AL

and there isn't much, if any damage there

and I began noticing businesses that they

had that Tuscaloosa just doesn't have anymore.

We passed Hobby Lobby and immediately

the image of that building that I frequented

is no longer recognizable.

The only consolation is that a wagon wheel bench

that had taken residence in that store for years

is probably put to rest. (When Harry Met Sally, anyone?)

I can't drive through neighborhoods or main streets

to get to my mother's house in Tuscaloosa

without seeing destruction and devastation.

She lives right off of 15th Street

and there are detours galore in order to make

it to her house.

Because of these images in my head,

I can't help but feel completely guilty

when I go back to Pinson in the evenings

and then feel angry at people in those towns

 who don't seem to be as concerned about

my  town.

Totally irrational, I know.

I figure I will harbor these emotions

until the images of these scenes

are replaced with new buildings and homes

and memories.

Also, I take complete hope that God is

continuing to restore my hope

by showing me love and grace

through his people.

I heard on the radio yesterday morning

as I was driving to work

that there was a quicker response of support and

help to the tornado victims

than for Hurricane Katrina. 

I don't think I have ever seen so many 

volunteer stations set up around a town

being so generous to a people

who have lost everything precious to them. 

I keep my hope that everything will be all right.  

For more ways to help, please refer to the organizations mentioned
in the previous blogs from this week.
Also, there are many benefit concerts being planned
as I type and I look forward to what those
will contribute to the relief.

And for those who can't be in Alabama
and help physically,
buy a t-shirt.

And this one:

Do what you can.