Today a storm system of almost unbelievable magnitude moved through our state. As I write this, it is still moving, and the damage is incredible. People have died and homes have been destroyed.
Most of the damage to this point seems to be focused in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham. And that's why this blog post is so personal to me. As a powerful, powerful tornado blew through T-town, my thoughts and prayers were focused on loved ones and friends there. Three nieces (whom I have written about often on this site) are students there and prayers for their safety were paramount at around 5:00. Text and social media helped me stay updated. It was a scary time.
The images and reports that are being posted now emphasize that it was indeed that bad. Check out this link to video of damage from the corner of McFarland and 15th in Tuscaloosa. If you know the area like I do, these images are hard to take in.
Incredible.
So I am am flooded with a mixture of thoughts and emotions:
- I was reminded of what it's like to be scared for people I love.
- I am so thankful that they escaped the wrath of the tornado.
- My heart is heavy for those who were not so fortunate. Those who lost their homes, their businesses, their lives, and lives of people they love.
It is a sad day in our state, and a day that should remind us how much we need each other. May those who are about to have to put their lives back together feel God's love. And may the rest of us be the ones to make that happen.
I agree, Donnie. This has been a devastating day. I am so thankful that your nieces are okay, but my heart is so incredibly heavy for those were not as fortunate.
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