Tragedy in all its various forms can often bring new perspectives and yes, sometimes even blessings. As the worst has passed, it’s time for some to say Goodbye to Hurricane Harvey. Liberty Nation Contributor Josee Cox is one of those people with a big heart for those less fortunate. She spent several weeks volunteering to help the residents of New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina and by happenstance found herself in Houston during Harvey’s most treacherous days. Josee’s thoughts regarding this unusual circumstance are recorded here for our readers.
At a particular time in life, many of us find ourselves taking care of aging parents. Such was the case for Mrs. Cox as she traveled to Houston to support her ailing mother. What follows are her reflections and thoughts as she leaves Houston and Harvey behind. We hope you find her letter as inspirational as we did:
Josee’s Message
My mom was discharged from the hospital yesterday though very frail with multiple health issues. Medicine just can’t “fix” her. I got her settled into the nursing home, and my nephew drove me to Austin on his way back to Corpus Christi. I’m in a hotel here decompressing before my flight out tomorrow.
Time and perspective are curious things. For many days, I complained about the “bad” timing of Harvey’s appearance just as I arrived from San Diego. Now, I am grateful for it and call it a blessing because it gave me five full days with no interruptions devoted to my mother. Unless we took a peak outside, we were snug in her room oblivious to the storm battering the world around us.
With Harvey now in the rearview mirror, I find myself experiencing deep gratitude for my own life and all my blessings. I’m lucky to get to resume it seamlessly. But my heart goes out to the thousands of residents in Houston who won’t have this luxury. They will be displaced for months and months. Even money can’t fix that.
These resilient Texans gave the world valuable lessons on how to behave in an emergency. The leadership reaction was quick and smart, and the residents countered with such compassion for each other. I saw miracles and love, no back biting and selfish grandstanding. I saw people saying prayers on TV!Still, I know that life will not be normal for these brave folks in Texas and my hope is that we will continue to support them with our time, talent and treasure because as we’ve seen these last few difficult days – that’s the American way.
Josee suggests those who want to help Harvey victims donate to the Salvation Army here.
