Katrina - One Year Later

Hurricane's aren't oftentimes personal to me. I don't live near the coast to the point where I'd be affected by the rain or damage. However a year ago, my life became affected in a very personal way. My best friend Gini Young and her family lost all they had due to Hurricane Katrina's devestating blow.

Gini had just had a baby, not even 2 months old. They escaped (thank GOD!), but only brought enough to be possibly displaced for three or four days. Hurricane Katrina had another timeline. Amidst all that happened, Gini, Jason, Mercy, and Gini's family really were lucky not to lose their lives. Materials can be replaced, but people can not. I am SO THANKFUL to my Lord and Saviour for being their protector that day in August, 2005.

To this day, it still saddens me that Gini and Jason have to struggle so much due to the Hurricane. Gini has always been a thrifty person, but it saddens me now that she has to pinch and save everything they make. Shortly after the hurricane hit, I sent as much as I could to them to help them out. Being that I had just moved myself, I couldn't do much, but I felt such a strong desire to care for them. They fleeted to Alabama and lived on the floor an empty house on a single mattress.... she, Jason, and the baby. No clothes, no basic necessities, no money.

Gini was there for me during MY valley in life, so it was only natural that I would extend the shoulder and hand to her during HER time. I love her so much and care for her a great deal, so when she hurts, I hurt.

One year later, they have truly been blessed. They live in a beautiful townhouse, have all that they need (although maybe not all they want), yet still don't complain. They realize that family, love, and life are among the blessings they still have! Although realizing that not everything is "wonderful" all the time, Gini and Jason still provide for their family and care for their beautiful daughter. I wish I could take the pain away. I wish I could give them more. But through this, Gini and Jason are learning patience (which is never easy!) as well as learning to rely on their Father for abundant blessings in HIS timing.

One year later..... I still remember.