Reminded of August Floods in Central Louisiana

As I look back on the events surrounding Hurricane Harvey a couple years ago, my heart weeped and I am reminded of August 2016 floods in Central Louisiana.

The floods of March 2016 and again in August were devastating southern Louisiana. Thanks to generous donations, Mark and I were able to immediately get into the trenches and help.  I spent long days cooking, while he worked. In the evenings we hit Walmart filling our trailer and car with socks, shoes, cleaning supplies, peanut butter, apples and personal hygiene etc.

We delivered supplies to areas off the beaten path that were not being serviced by the National Guard nor other relief efforts. When Mark had to work, friends stepped up and helped deliver supplies. Most had lost their homes and vehicles so we’re unable to get to shelters. Meals were available, but only to those who could get to a Red Cross location.

The love and gratitude we received was overwhelming. By reaching out to bless others we were in fact blessed in return.

I’ll never forget one particular young family. They had 5 wee ones. The parents sat in the middle of the street sorting the items and only taking exactly what they needed. Meanwhile Mark had the kids sitting on the bumper of our car fitting each with new shoes. The little girls squealed in delight over the new dresses.

The oldest was about 8 years old. When I handed him a foil pan full of salad, some oranges and bananas he looked like he was going to cry. Bewildered, I asked if he didn’t like salad. He dropped to his knees in the middle of the road, arms raised in praise and loudly exclaimed, “Thank you Jesus, no red beans and rice!”. Out of the mouths of babes, memories were created to last a life time.

After many weeks of serving others last year, a good friend sent me this quote. It hit home with such vengeance that I bawled. It has now become my motto.

Our prayers continue for those personally affected, the emergency responders and all the volunteers. If we all do a little, the results will change generations to come.