I’m not quite sure why we didn’t take the tornado warnings seriously on December 10. On a typical Friday evening, we were like many of you, tucked in at home in the family room with a “new to us” movie on.
As that movie ended, I reached for my phone, and weather notifications were everywhere. We turned the TV to our local weather, and Mayfield was on the screen… a mile-wide tornado was moving from Mayfield to my hometown.
Texts to check on my niece in Mayfield began. I held my breath. They had waited out the tornado under their home in Mayfield. No power. No water.
But they were fine, and as far as they could see in the blackness, their home was okay.
I asked if they wanted to stay with us if driving through all of the debris was possible. Yes, was her reply.
Five beds were readied while this “CC” and “G”’s hearts were truly thankful that all of them were unharmed.
Four littles- between 2 and 11- and Mom and Dad arrived a few minutes later. The shock of what they had experienced, the littles wide awake and all traumatized.
As they returned home for basics the next morning, there was a realization that the mile-wide tornado had only been 2200 feet in front of their home. Across the other side of Interstate 69 from their home was nothing but destruction.
Thankful hearts, but the “why were we spared” thoughts flurried around our conversations.
Feet were under my table for several days until power and water returned.
Even a birthday breakfast celebration of one turning twelve was pure joy! A family tradition that was so important to keep.
Three of those littles never missed a “Suessical” performance at the Market House Theatre, which provided normalcy for them on the two days following the tornado.
Meals prepared, hot baths and warm beds, and conversation were priceless to those in need.
We set out to keep the littles and even a high schooler busy with making gingerbread houses and hot chocolate.
Food, movies, games, projects, and outdoor play took priority for the days that followed.
A distraction that offered comfort and love to them and their neighbors’ children, since their neighbors were working and the care for their children had also moved to our house for a short stay.
Thirteen pairs of shoes were parked by our back door, and 13 heads were laid to sleep on beds and air mattresses for a while.
So often, we feel that if we don’t have a lot to give or are unable to be “on-site” after disasters that we are less than compassionate or supportive.
The emotional and moral support of having those family and friends in our home was the best contribution we could provide.
The most valuable lesson became clear to me. My heart was overflowing to meet the needs of all at a time when they needed it—a new view of the frailty of life for sure.
To have those loved ones safe was the best gift ever and to be able to provide love and care for them in my home was priceless.
Never doubt your contributions, friends. Offering prayer, meals, and even a listening ear when those around you need it – disaster or not-is life changing.
Meanwhile, for us, with grateful hearts, and a thankful view, we are counting our blessings.
