The Aftermath of Ian (9/30)

I have Hurricane Ian on the brain, especially as we begin to get word regarding our little island and how it faired. We are hanging in there...

It was massive hurricane in size, scope, and length of time. We knew it was coming but there is nothing to do to stop it. It could have been much worse. We were blessed to avoid any storm surges but got pummeled with tremendous wind and rain. Thankfully, we believe that very few houses on the island are a total loss. However, probably every single home had some level of exterior and/or interior wind damage. (So far, we know at the minimum the ceiling in our upstairs master bedroom, including our stairwell area has collapsed, even though the exterior doesn’t look too bad.)

Our surroundings will look a lot different when we go back to assess the damages. It will be a shock to the system. Times like these tend to bring about a variety of emotions and it is easy to get overwhelmed. There are endless questions that beg for answers; what is the exact damage, is there hidden damage, is the place structurally sound, when do you contact insurance, how soon do we try to get there, what does the inside clean up include, will there be help for any needed repairs, how long will repairs take, can we avoid more damage, how long will it take for utilities to get running, how are the neighbors doing, and so on… Sometimes it is the aftermath more than the event itself which throw you for the biggest loop. Especially if we get ahead of ourselves.

We all face unexpected twists and turns in life, but it is how we respond to them that will define us. After all, we really do have such little control. A hurricane that ransacks your neighborhood is a definite reminder. Hold your friends close, possessions loosely, and take one day at a time.

How are you seeing God's strength in the midst of your weakness?

Are you able to let go of the unknowns in front of you?

What areas of your life are you ready to hand over to God?

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:34