As Storms Wash Over, What Dries From The Rain Reveals The Complexity Of The Human Spirit

From the wreckage of the cataclysmic storm Harvey, the strength of the human spirit persists with all its complexities. As the terror rages on against the state of Texas, stark images of survivors, dilapidation, and sheer paralysis as a result of such devastation has revealed within itself that which makes humanity so unique, paradoxical, and most importantly: resilient.

Consider these images and among them, you will recognize the vulnerability, the solidarity, and the humanity of those directly afflicted by Harvey and the rescue workers seeking those in need. I ask only that each reader take a pause between each photo to contemplate the gravity of Harvey’s destruction on the people’s of Texas and recognize the blessings that are present within your own lives that you may well cease to acknowledge.

(from Nigerian Oracle posted Aug. 28th, 2017. Depicted here are men aiding an elderly women.)

(from the Berry posted Aug. 29th, 2017. Depicted here is a man evacuating the grossly flooded highway, finding ground to walk on by way of the cement dividing block. Visibly cars are submerged in a deep pool of water.)

(from the Los Angeles Sentinel. In this photo, a young boy navigates his way through the high levels of water to check on a neighbor in the adjacent apartment building according to the Sentinel.)

(from Chron. Depicted here are two people swept in an embrace, comforting each other in the wake of hurricane Harvey’s devastation.)

(from Long Room, posted Aug. 31st, 2017. Along with other victims, A man carries a young boy on his back as they trudge the flooded streets of Houston)

(from NewsOne. Seen here, a man is carried with the help of two men to safety from the murky waters.)

(from Tulsa World, posted Aug. 29th, 2017. Young volunteer Elizabeth Hill plays cards with Skyler Smith who evacuated his home to be placed in a shelter.)

Of all the photographs depicted here, this final image offers a glimpse into the resilient spirit of humanity. Despite the tragedies that have swept across Texas, there still lies within each person a sense of hope. Hope for the future and a hope for continued progress toward coming together for a common goal.

As a nation, we often find ourselves at odds with our fellow man when politics, economy, and warfare take precedence over the fundamental aspects of life. Yet among strife, we must face moments like these through the example set by children. If the innocence of children can teach us anything, it is that we can always be a lending hand to each other despite differences.

To offer help, here are some relief organizations to send donations and aid.

South Texas Blood and Tissue Center Call 210-731-5590 or visit its website.

Carter BloodCare. To donate, call 877-571-1000 or text DONATE4LIFE to 444-999.

For animal care, visit the Houston Humane Society or the San Antonio Humane Society. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has provided an animal emergency response hotline (713-861-3010) and is accepting donations on its website. (Caron, NY TImes, 2017)