It's unbelievable to think that just over a week ago we were happily holidaying in QLD having a wonderful time with family and now some of that family are picking up the pieces of a home that was almost flooded to the roof. Most of what they own completely destroyed.
Aside from the personal stories of those we know and love, many other stories have emerged that rip at the very center of humanity. My heart breaks at the thought of what so many people are currently facing. As a mother though, it is the pictures like the one below that are enough to bring me to tears.
Can you even imagine? Being separated from your baby in what has been described as an inland Tsunami. The greatest natural dissaster to ever hit Queensland, and possibly even our nation? I really can't comprehend the fear of those that were in circumstances like this.
Just like in a real war zone, as the storm begins to somewhat calm, the aftermath produces the reality of just how much devastation has occurred. The unbelievable clean up that lies ahead for three quarters of an entire state. Tragedy for the people left behind to pick up the pieces of their lives that have literally been washed away. And whilst many will eventually recover and move forward with only loss of possessions, others have not been so lucky.
But like many tragedies, despite the loss, human spirit soars high. Strangers become friends as they give up their time and money to fix that which has been broken. My sister-in-law whose house was flooded told me tonight that something like 30 people showed up at their home today in an effort to help. She told me of a man opening his wallet after hearing their story and offering, no insisting, they take money.
As I continue to watch the news footage, while it's unbelievably shocking and distressing, It is the lines of volunteers that make me teary now. The hero's coming forward for no other reason than to help. Charity and humanity at its finest.
It's going to take weeks, months and even years for people to get their lives back in order after a disaster such as this. I think when that time comes, when communities are finally renewed, and people look back on the events of January 2011, the heroism and human spirit being shown will be an integral part of that memory.
***Don't forget to head over to MAKE IT PERFECT and check out all the FANTASTIC items that are being auctioned off to raise money for the flood victims***
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4 comments:
i know it's terrible.... my heart aches... and i realise - i am so not prepared- even though for this you couldn't be prepared - just plain scared!
Felicity, my husband and I read your post tonight and wanted to know if there is anything we can do or send to help. Feel free to email me privately at marlowe.linford@gmail.com. I know the church is excellent with their emergency welfare assistance but we, along with our ward would love to gather anything we could send to assist with relief.
that first image gets me every time too- can you see they've written her name on her arm? justin went in on saturday and people were saying it was taking 2 or 3 hours just to get in on account of the thousands of people offering their time to help clean up!
tragedy really can strike at any moment- folow the prophet!
thanks for the post listy. glad to see your still out there ;)
Thanks for making me cry again Felicity! My heart breaks at all the stories that have been on the Tv and I just need to say that my friends have been so giving for Leah and Varian. I have a heap of stuff for them. One of my friends offered them a house for as long as they want as they do not live in it and others have gone and bought brand new things for them It makes me proud to be their friends. So a big thank you to all my friends. I love you heaps.
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