January 20, 2018
To my dear 805,
We have been through a series of unfathomable events. The loss and destruction of loved ones and property is nothing less than heartbreaking. There is not one of us that has not been touched by the effects of Thomas or the mudslides, not one of us that hasn’t felt the pain these tragedies have ensued. Speaking from my own personal experiences, this kind of loss can be paralyzing and crippling if you let it consume you. It is a very easy dark hole to climb down. Last week I felt this very heavy effect. Not knowing what I could possibly do to help. I found myself walking around in circles, overwhelmed with grief. Thoughts would come to me of ways I could help, but I would dismiss them because they felt so small and petty compared to the events. But what I have come to witness and realize is that it doesn’t matter how small the action, any action is better than none. I have seen members of this community join together this past week, together their actions have moved mountains.
It is proof that our pooled skills and efforts, however so small individually, amount to greatness together. I can only speak to what I know, and I know loss, the effect it has on us and how important it is to have a safe, comfortable place to retreat to at the end of a long day. For most of us our homes are our safe haven from the world, but with so many displaced that security has been taken away. In the next weeks, months, years we will be rebuilding our community our homes. In the mean time we are all in flux in some way or another. Our surroundings can have a huge effect on our well being. I will be posting tips and resources, and offering my skills the best I know how, on the journal to help you gain a sense of comfort and home during this uncertain time. Please reach out to me with any questions you may have, or resources you would like to pool. Together we can move mountains!
With love and healing thoughts,
Melinda
