crazy times

The past few weeks have been some of the most tragic, inspiring, interesting weeks of my life. On May 4th 2011, tornados ravaged the state of Alabama-including the two cities that I consider my two homes-Cullman & Tuscaloosa. To see the devastation in these areas has been heartbreaking, but to see how these areas have joined together to support each other in this time is so inspiring. People are putting aside their pride, differences, & statuses to serve each other and love each other. I am truly blessed to be able to witness this first hand. To see the damage done by the tornado has been even more eye-opening. The tornados do not discriminate based on economic status, age, or race. A simple wind has demolished homes, cars, lives, & neighborhoods. To see the devastation around me hits me with a huge blast of survivor's guilt & an amazing amount of surprise & awe at people who have survived and the lack of bitterness that resonates with them. I know people are bitter & hard. It's hard not to be. I don't think I would be the picture perfect of calm if I emerged from my home to see my neighbors' homes standing on my right & left. I am still trying to digust how this happens. This is not a punishment for evil in the world, but there is evil in the world and as much as God protects us we must go through these trials. The thing this event has reminded me the most of is that we are not of this world. This is such a temporary place-this is not our home. We build it up and create our nests of comfort, we adjust and conform but then something like this happens and it makes it all the more clear how temporary life is.