On March 2, 2012, we experienced another set of devastating storms through our part of the world. This time, for me, the lights will not come back on. On Friday, our home was completely destroyed.
Nobody was home when the EF-2 twister tore through my neighborhood, leaving my home in a pile of rubble. To say that we are still in shock is an understatement. Our immediate needs have been addressed, and we are working to salvage what we can. We have already retrieved more than I thought imaginable.
In April 2011, we did what we could to reach out to neighbors, family and strangers to support relief efforts. In March 2012, I was the recipient of the generosity of my many families: immediate, church, and work. Yesterday, 60-some people descended on our property and helped us with the first phase of salvage. Boy Scouts, members of a high school football team, two church groups, FEMA, Red Cross, and numerous volunteers from a local college tackled the mess. We have been flooded with all kinds of support, kindness and care. Last year, I considered it a tremendous blessing to serve. This weekend, I consider it a tremendous blessing to allow others to share their gifts of service for me. I am overwhelmed.
With respect to my house, the lights cannot come back on. But in the eyes and hearts of those around us these past couple of days, the light is shining. We are in good spirits, all things considered. The Lord is our rock, and our refuge, in this most certain time of trouble. I will praise Him in good times, and bad, and despite our loss, we have been given much.
As I hold my family close, I cannot help but think: I have been, and remain, very, very blessed.
For those of you interested, here is a link to the interview I gave for a local TV station.
4 comments:
I read about your loss on Ricochet but am not a member so came here to comment. I am so very sorry to hear of the destruction of your home.
We lived through the flooding of our Nashville home in 2010 - different, I know, but I can empathize with the shock, gratitude, and tiredness (once the adrenaline wears off) that accompany such an event.
I am thankful that you & your loved ones are safe and especially that you have faith in our Lord who will see you through what lies ahead.
Like you, we were accustomed to being the givers of assistance. We have learned that being the recipients of care and kindness is indeed a great blessing.
You will be in our prayers.
Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers and well wishes, Kathleen!
I remember well the Nashville flood, and further remember how much Nashville seemed to take care of its own.
Again, my thanks, and all our best to you.
Hang in there Jim. With the ongoing mercy of God and the continued support of friends and family the lights with come back on soon. May God Bless the Chases richly. Fred
I've finally found your blog again and am reading your posts. This one and the next made me cry...but for joy. I'm so glad we got to see you and to know your faith will carry you through. We love you so much. AJ
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