“Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have.” - Margaret Mead
Please take loving care of yourself and all those dear to you. Stay safe, healthy, and hopeful; keep everyone in the path of Hurricane Ian in your prayers. And keep believing and
caring.
With faith and love,Charlene
P.S. Dear Friends,
Wherever you are in this world, please take care and stay safe. And please join me in praying for everyone who is in the midst of any kind of life storm, especially for those who are suffering in the hurricane aftermath and for those still in the path of Ian.
After making landfall on the southwest coast, this 500-mile wide storm traveled upward, affecting pretty much all of Florida, including the central area where I live.
"Waiting for this hurricane to arrive as been like being stalked by a turtle," said my daughter yesterday. Haha. A funny and fitting
description.
But this slow-moving, giant storm is anything but funny.
As I write this, the eyewall is hitting land on the southwest coast. I believe my beloved Sanibel Island is directly in the eye, and I'm hearing predictions that the sea surge could reach as high as 19 feet.
Even though we don't face the threat of a high water storm surge here in Clermont, Ian will likely bring torrential rain, high winds, and tornados to us.
My husband, Frank, and I experienced several storms on Sanibel. We were present during tropical storm Debby when the sustained winds were 40 mph, with 65 mph gusts, which is mild compared to Ian's power.
We were also on Sanibel Island in the aftermath of the severe storms, Charley and Irma, when
massive damage occurred, included taking down the spectacular arching tunnel formed by the 40-ft. Australian pines that graced Periwinkle Way, the main thoroughfare. (I describe these storms and the lessons they offer in The Twelve Gifts from the Garden: Life Lessons for Peace and Well-Being.)
In time, with extensive human repairing and nature renewing, the beauty of the island was
restored after each storm.
And so it will be again. Perhaps after more damage this time, however. The meteorologists are saying the whole of hurricane Charley would fit into the eye of Ian. Oh dear.
Through all of life storms, may we be safe.
Let's pray for one
another, always.
With love and compassion
Charlene
THE ELEVENTH GIFT IS LOVE.
It will grow each time you give it away.
from The Twelve Gifts of Birth
