As I sit down to write this, I’m filled with deep gratitude for the safety of my
family and friends here in Tallahassee. In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s
approach, my heart goes out to those across Florida whose loved ones,
homes, properties, and businesses have suffered. I hope they receive the
support they need to rebuild their lives.
Last week, Hurricane Helene threatened to make landfall directly in our city,
casting a shadow over my sixth year living in Tallahassee. This was the most
daunting forecast I had faced since moving here, and the memories of the
tornados that had swept through town earlier in May still lingered in the air. The
thought of confronting another potential disaster so soon was unsettling, to say
the least.
In the days leading up to the storm, I found myself engulfed in a whirlwind of
emotions—scattered, anxious, uneasy, and uncertain. I began to reflect on the
nature of storms, both in the literal sense and metaphorically. They come into
our lives without warning, wreaking havoc in ways we can’t predict or control.
All that we are left with is our response.
Will we allow the devastation to define us, or will we gather the fragments of
our lives and forge ahead? Do we even know how to pick up the pieces when
the storm has passed? What does it look like to reclaim our lives, to rebuild?
And when our journey of healing doesn’t align with our expectations, does that
make it any less meaningful? Who decides what “picking up the pieces” really
means?
I’ve had my fair share of storms—romantic heartbreaks, financial struggles,
academic challenges, career upheavals, and familial shifts. Each time I’ve
faced these tempests, I’ve learned to rebuild stronger than before. With every
piece I gathered, I discovered a new layer of peace and resilience within
myself. I shattered old beliefs and let go of rigid ideas about how things
“should” be.
Navigating through a storm is rarely easy. It’s in the midst of turbulence that
our true character is revealed, and it’s our growth on the other side that shapes
us. Therefore, as you gear up to face your own storms or are pulling through
one, lean on your community, honor your journey, and celebrate your progress,
however small it may seem.
Remember, there’s always something brighter waiting for you on the other
side. In the aftermath, as the clouds disperse, let’s stand together, ready to
embrace the calm.
Music Highlight: What do you sing during your storm? A few of my favorites are below.
I Told The Storm - Gregg O'Quinn
Won't He Do It (Remix) - Koryn Hawthorne
Darling - Beautiful Chorus
I Am Safe - Beautiful Chorus
Grateful - Hezekiah Walker
I Am Proud Of Myself - Tiana Major9
