Sunday May 22, 2011 an F5 tornado ripped through my place of residence. Many lives were lost, homes destroyed, businesses wiped out, schools flattened, pets and so on. A huge number of people have nothing but the shirt on their backs.

The destruction is still hard to digest when it’s seen firsthand.   A frame of reference no longer exists for the streets once known.   At this time the total death count is 134, and everyone has been accounted for.

My heart goes out to those whom lost their loved ones, homes, and the lives they once knew.  My thoughts and prayers are with those whom have lost.

I am aware that the reconstruction of our city will take some time- but I am very hopeful that this dark situation brings about an immense source of light.  We’ve already witnessed tremendous amount of miracles within the last week.

People from all over have come to Joplin’s aid- it’s been overwhelming positive.   Seeing so many people at once work towards a common good when life has been filled with petty arguments regarding politics, religion, government issues and so on.  In the times of crisis we can, will and are putting nonsense issues aside to work together.

Businesses both big and small have come into help.    Making donations towards the reconstruction of our town, and providing services to those in need.    The result of all of devastation is love and compassion flourishing.

At work we see the same faces each day- we don’t know their names- but we can tell you what they like, don’t like, and what to expect from them.  We hugged so many people we didn’t know-just grateful to see them.  They provide us just as much as we do them with a sense of security and familiarity.

The beauty of this all is an opportunity to rebuild Joplin even better, and be a community that emanates love, compassion, and thrives.   It will take sometime- I already see it happening.

What this taught me is to be thankful for all the hum drum aspects in life- because one day you may wake up realize you miss those pieces.  And then- love, love, love…. it’s what the world needs now.   You can brighten someone’s day (and even your own) by spreading love and kindness through compassion, listening, a smile, hug and any other random act of kindness.

I would like to thank all of my friends- the ones I know personally and whom I have never met for your concerns, prayers, and well wishes.   It means a lot.