Is the 8th anniversary of hurricane Katrina. It killed over 1,800 people. Our son who works offshore was in the gulf as the storm approached. The company finally shut down and he was able to come in and manage to get to Texas. He was one of the lucky ones.
As I watched the news, each broadcast I had tears in my eyes. I HAD to do something, anything. No way would I just write a check. I had to do something that would directly help those affected by the storm.
I truly believe things happen for a reason and at the time I was working at a job where I had a conversation with a board member about a friend he had in Louisiana.
Some of people who did get out of New Orleans were sent to a town in northern Louisiana which had a shelter.
The people who were evacuated had nothing, only the clothes on their backs. The man running the shelter was at his wits end. How could he help these people?
After our conversation I knew I was going to help. No matter what I would get it done.
Never in my life had I ever attempted anything as enormous and important as this. No matter what, it was going to happen.
Asking for help I got tons of no's. I can not to this day understand why. Doesn't matter, I got my yes and ran with it.
We managed to send two tracker trailer loaded with water, clothing, bikes and many other necessities. Everything was sorted and clean and at the end of the day you knew that what you did was helping. That's what it's all about.
This post isn't about me and what I did, it's about kindness. It's also about if you want something bad enough, just do it. Don't wait for someone else to do it because it may never get done.
Recently I heard a sermon about people's talents. As he read off the talents, I sat there and thought well, I don't have any of those but the last one was kindness. That I know I have.
I believe everyone has kindness in them, let it out. The world would be a better place.
The world would be a much better place with people showing kindness instead of hatred or selfishness that's for sure Linda.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful thing you did for those affected by Hurricane Katrina-I heard on the news it was 8 years ago-that's so hard to believe, it seems like it was only yesterday-and I'm sure it feels that way to those that dealt with it and the aftermath of it.
I'm sure the gentleman who ran the shelter in northern LA was touched beyond words to see those trucks loaded with so many desperately needed items arrive.
You may have never done anything on that grand scale before but you did it and did it well..........when you think you can't-God gives you a nudge and says "Yes you can,"
Carol, what was amazing everything that was sent was folded and clean. I also made sure no dog or cat hair was on pillows, sheets and clothing. Wanted to make sure the things sent didn't get anyone sick.
DeleteAfter the truck got there I heard that I stuff was so appreciated not only because of the need but each box was labeled and clean.
People like to give but it's also an excuse to get rid of their garbage. Look at the dumpster. We filled 10 of those. You can imagine the crap I had to toss out.
I remember when you did this, and it was a wonderful act of kindness. I agree with Carol, it would be such a better world if people didn't hate the way they do. The strange thing is, that some people don't even realize why they hate someone or something. They are just following in the footsteps of those before them, and it is not a good thing. It is such a shame, that some people are brainwashed into hating someone. I wish the world had more Lindas, it would be a much better place and people would get along so much better.
ReplyDeleteIt is so wonderful when you hear of people rushing to help when a hurricane hits. This is one of the many nature things we can't control, but we can Help !
Linda, you are a great one for getting things done, and hopefully one of these days, you will get your reward.
I know, I would write and tell you what was going on. You gave me strength and confidence when others got snotty about what I was doing.
DeleteI'll never forget Paddi sent me 50 dollars and I went to TJ Max and bought up all the large bras. I took just about every single one. One thing I thought, it's always nice to have new underwear.
You know what is special to me, you have never missed a day to support me with the blog. You knew how important is was because of Rip.With everything you have going in your life and still take time out for me, my "reward" is calling you my friend.
It is terrible when people use these sad times to empty their junk. It makes it look like they think the people will appreciate anything, but would they want to receive the junk if it was them.
ReplyDeleteI have missed a few days with the blog Linda, but you understand why these days. My life is so messed up right now. I so much appreciate you and your friendship. It is great to have each other to vent to, and know that it won't be passed over as a dumb thing. We have been through so much in the years we have known each other, and I look forward to the many years to come.
Linda, you have much more than kindness. Yes I remember when you did this also. I'm having trouble reading & seeing but I did read the comments from you Ladies and DITTO to all.
DeleteLinda so many have been blessed by you. As well as your family and friends alike. May God always watch over you and those you Love.
Dottie, can you believe it's been that long? It seems like yesterday when I was on your board.
DeleteI know this is late in replying but you do have talent Linda. A talent for kindness and compassion, a very hard to find commodity these days. You are a blessing to those you helped and they appreciated that more than anything else
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