Messages from The Universe, Mother Nature and Beyond
By now, we have all seen the footage of Harvey’s aftermath. This storm produced a disaster beyond our comprehension. As a Believer, it is difficult to absorb why such a tragedy had to occur and why good people have experienced despair greater than anyone should endure.
Like many, I tracked the impending storm and sent out positive vibes until I thought my head was going to explode. Thoughts of the honorable people of Texas in harm’s way occupied my heart. And then it hit…a catastrophic storm that transcended anyone’s expectation. A perfectly awful act of nature. My prayers went into overload for the people who are now empty-handed, homeless and hopeless. There has been biblical flooding like we have never seen in our lifetime. Street transportation transitioned to canoes, rafts and even water skis while cars, homes and businesses remain literally underwater.
Harvey’s hit certainly gives the Non-Believer validation to question why God would allow this tragedy to happen. And why mess with Texas? The truth is, I don’t have an easy answer.
As a resident of the Sunshine State of Florida for over a decade, I have experienced more hurricanes and dramatic storms than I could have fathomed. My experience included a lot of pre-storm preparations with plenty of hype and hysteria. Being shuttered in a home without power, AC and limited contact with the outside world was pretty unpleasant. Then the shift happens. The storm passes, and you take care of the preliminaries. You assess the damage and tend to the cleanup. You catch up on your caffeine fix and send word to loved ones that you are okay. Friends start to check on each other and before you know it, the neighbors gather together and grill the food from their respective refrigerators. A renewed feeling of community is born. There is a sharing of stories, excess supplies and a collective mood of relief that brings everyone together. Regardless of the damage – whether it is your sense of well-being, your physical possessions or cellular service – to gain an appreciation for your safety, your crisis management skills and your devotion to helping others.
I don’t intend to minimize the effect of a hurricane. It is truly a frightening, if not paralyzing experience. As we see the horrific damage to Texas via the images and stories in the media, it is heartbreaking and breeds a feeling of helplessness. Yet record-breaking rains and flooding continue to wreak havoc. The reality is that Texas needs our help, and we can all make a difference. Fortunately, there are agencies who handle disaster recovery efforts that collect donations, funds, and supplies for those in dire need. Corporate America is also spearheading similar efforts, as well as churches and other organizations. People of persuasion have been using social media initiatives to encourage celebrities, athletes, and others financially blessed individuals to contribute to the economic restoration of our brothers and sisters in Houston along with all areas affected by Harvey. While their extensive damage is going to delay the neighborhood grill, I hope all Texans can feel the national loving mission in place to help them become whole again. The message for Texas is the same – in times of strife, there is an opportunity to find peace in the connection of a community that comes together for the greater good.
We are all called to serve at a higher level. Let’s do what we can to alleviate the pain. Not everyone can provide financial support, and that’s okay. Take the opportunity to be a prayer advocate, and pray for anyone affected by Hurricane Harvey. It doesn’t matter what your religion is or isn’t. Pray in any fashion that suits you. Let love be your religion. Use your faith to create a ripple effect of peace and hope. Be as Light-filled as possible. Pray for the lost lives and the survivors as well as the newborn of the storm. Pray for the physical healing of people and pets who are suffering and for the selfless first responders, rescue heroes and earth angels who are caring for them. Pray for the broken spirits of the people affected so they have the will to rebuild their lives. Pray for peaceful leadership, proactive centers of influence and unsensational news reporting. Pray for the new communities of compassion that evolve from devastation. There is an endless need for prayer because the power of prayer is endless.
With epic love and gratitude,
If you need prayer inspiration, below is the Prayer of St. Francis, and this verse contains many messages.
