When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Last year, I wrote a post here reflecting on the experience of the aftermath of a massive tornado outbreak across the south. In that storm, we narrowly avoided tornadoes to our north and to our south as close as a half mile, and as far as two miles. I shared with you about the experience of community, and my reflection of what happened When the Lights Came Back On.
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 deeply 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.
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Comments:
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Yes -- so glad you shared this. Your attitude here and on the video is truly inspiring. What devastation, yet what faith you have! I feel helpless here in CT, yet you have my prayers.
Mar '11
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Insurance - it REALLY pays to hire your own expert. They negotiate on your behalf, and it makes an enormous difference to the resulting settlement.
Do NOT wing it!
Sep '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Jim,
I'm sorry to read about the loss of almost everything you hold dear, but immensely pleased to read that your family is safe. And what a great example to all of us here to put first things first, because we never know when the secondary things will be taken away from us with no warning.
Please keep us updated as much as you can.
Pseud
May '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Oh, so many distressing stories and images on the news this weekend. Of course my prayers go out to you and yours Jim, but it does seem as if you are well cared for. Good neighbors and strong communities are a great blessing.
Stay strong.
Oct '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
You've got the right spirit, Jim. If that piece of property is your beulah land, I do hope you are able to rebuild. "Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness." (Psalm 37:3).
May '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Jim, God bless and Godspeed... As others have said, keep that spirit high!
Edited on March 6, 2012 at 2:23amMay '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Wow, Jim. Ditto to every kind word in this thread.
And you were something else in that interview -- composed and strong and somehow keeping perspective in the face of it all. Your wife and kids are lucky to have you.
Good luck to you.
Oct '11
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Jim -Not sure there's anything I can add, but I'm certainly glad to hear your family is safe!John Murdoch -Your advice about cataloging the house and its contents is absolutely brilliant - is it available anywhere you could link to? I'd like to be able to find it again, should the need ever arise.
May '11
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
We went through the earthquake last year, which for us in Tokyo was mostly a large clean up job, not a life changing event, but even so, I think I might have a small idea of what you are going through. I'm pleased to hear that you have a great community of people there who are lending a hand.
Godbless you and your family.
Domo
May '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Oh, Jim. I'm so sorry for you sudden and overwhelming loss. Yet, I was encouraged to read and see your attitude. I'm reminded of that song, "Blessed be Your Name." I am praying you have peace through this tumultuous time.
Mar '11
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Jim, I'm so sorry. I'm inspired by your faith and fortitude, and pray that G-d blesses you and keeps you strong as you rebuild.
Jun '10
Re: When the Lights Can't Come Back On
Again, my thanks to all for the prayers and support. We finally finished our salvage efforts today. The search begins in earnest to sort through what we have, search for a new residence, and a million more phone calls to make. After 4 days, we're tired, but doing well. I'll try to check in on this thread when I can. I won't drag you through the ongoing drama and minutiae by providing a steady commentary, but I won't go totally silent either. You, my Ricochet family, have been a great comfort and support the past couple days. My sincerest thanks to you all.
Update: I modified my profile to include blog and twitter information, fwiw.
Edited on March 7, 2012 at 3:40pm