I’d like to say thank you to the people of Georgia. Everyone who spots our North Carolina license plate, our UNC/NC State shirts, or hears us listening to updates about our community being effected by the storm has been so comforting and welcoming.
It usually starts off with, “did you evacuate because of the storm?” Then it’s offers of help, kind words, and lots of support. I can’t explain how much it helps to even hear a few words of encouragement.
I’m looking at pics and watching videos of the devastation that Hurricane Florence wrought on my community, and it’s helped with taking my mind off of it.
We are no where near done even though the storm is passing. We still have to find an unblocked, and flood free road home. Gas will be gone, and canned food will be nowhere to be found. There will be no perishable food on any shelves.
Roads will be washed out, tap water won’t be safe to drink, and the electricity will be out for days on end. We’ll get home and have to throw out all the spoiled food. Clear the yard of all debris.
And prepare to hunker down until services are back up. Assuming our home wasn’t destroyed by flooding or falling trees.
It’s worrisome, but at least I’m not dwelling on it right now. And a big part of that is the warm welcome we have received here in Georgia. The people of Atlanta have also extended so much support to people effected by the storm.
The Atlanta Braves have offered free entrance to their home games to evacuees, hotels have people coming to them to comfort evacuees, and many other residents and businesses have offered help and discounts.
I’ve never been in this situation before, and I have to say that I am so touched by the outpouring of support by all these complete strangers. It warms my heart. My hats off to the people of Georgia.
Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia. PRP3 The Author Media. Copyright September 14, 2018.
Paul Russell Parker III 