Labor of love… tell your heart to beat again
Today we celebrate another Labor Day. Something we have been doing since the 1880’s. Labor Day is more than just a three day weekend. It is time to reflect on the American Worker; men and women who give of themselves every day in so many ways. As irony would have it, this first Monday of September often falls when severe storms seem to ravage our Country…. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and this past week… Hurricane Harvey. The spirit of the American Worker can be extended to all those who answer the call to help those in need. We have certainly seen it as people from all over the Country have descended upon Texas with their boats, blankets, bottled water and shear desire to help those in trouble.
We have our differences. We may not all see things the same when it comes to religion, race, sexual orientation or politics. But, that plays no role in this natural disaster or in times of need. No one asks these questions prior to pulling people or their pets out of the flood waters in Texas. Time and again, we have shown this to be the case. The events in Charlottesville last month are not forgotten. But…that is not what defines us. I am a realist. I know there are people who hate and that is not likely to change. But, I will give them no audience today. I’d like to think that what defines us is what we are seeing in response to the destruction left by Harvey. The outpouring of kindness through money, resources and labor.
Texas will be in need of our support for a long time just as Louisiana and Mississippi needed us in 2005. I have no doubt that we, their fellow Americans, will be there for them. For we are all Laborers, if not in work, then in love, thoughts and prayers.
These are stressful times. While Texas struggles from an abundance of water, Montana has been battling destructive fires. Another Storm named Irma is gaining steam and is possibly headed towards the U.S., though exactly where, no one is certain. The only way through all of these will be together. Yesterday was a National Day of Prayer with the people of Texas specifically in mind. But, I think it is something we all need.
To rebuild and go forward can seem daunting and overwhelming. But, going forward is the only direction to go. Whatever has happened, loss of your home in flood or fire, you can’t go back. The same for those who face other battles. I know several who are having their own private battles with the demon cancer, loss of loved ones or changes in their life circumstances.
Frequently as people are feeling stressed and trying to figure out how to go forward, we talk about breathing and how easy it is when feeling stressed and anxious to quit breathing….leading to hyperventilating and a feeling of panicky. Stress and anxiety literally do take your breath away, don’t they? But more than that, they often stop you in your tracks…fear sets in and it is difficult to know how to go on. People in Beaumont and Houston may be feeling this fear and uncertainty.
Let’s be honest. Words fall short during times like these. There are things that can’t be fixed. We can only do what we can do. It can leave you feeling helpless when you see people suffering and you can’t fix it. But, compassion and caring are important too. A favorite quote of mine comes from President Carter who said, “My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.” For those who can’t go down to volunteer in Texas, you can help in your local communities. You are surrounded by people in need. For those who are in need, don’t be afraid to let someone know and to be open to accepting the help. You are a survivor of whatever “storm” you are facing. Keep breathing and keep moving forward.
Tell your heart to beat again….
Tammy