The Laughing Wolf

A Day To Reflect, A Day To Act

Charley has hit and things are bad. Yet, as bad as they are, they could be so much worse. Yes, there is lots and lots of damage. Buildings can be rebuilt and possessions replaced, for they are only things. The only true loss we have experienced are people. Right now, the number of dead is not known but it could be high if the early reports from a mobile home park turn out to be accurate.

America is a nation of almost infinite resources and a truly infinite heart. It is now time to help our own. Do not go make donations of things just yet, for at the start of any disaster they are more problem than help. Call and find out what is needed, most places are going to ask for money so that they can get exactly what is needed. Check with LifeSouth, Red Cross, or other local blood agencies to find out if they need blood, and then donate if they do. If you have one of the rarer types, please do so on a regular basis anyway.

Most importantly, check back. Check Florida blogs like Road Warrior, Boudicca’s Voice, Sekimori, On The Third Hand, Twisted Spinster, Hog On Ice, and Babalu Blog to see what is needed. UPDATE: Not sure if he is local, but DeCloah Blog has family and friends down there, as well as some good posts on what has happened and is happening. DebWire is also providing coverage. Money will always help, but the situation will change over time. There will be a need for things, specific things, later. Let’s get those things as they are needed, to where they are needed and when they are needed.

Let us reflect this day. Let us give thanks, that things were not worse. Let us pray, meditate, or whatever it is that you do, for those lost, those in need, and in thanks for all that was spared, and all that are safe. We will mourn our dead, and remember them. Then, let us go forward and do what is needed to bring the full resources of the people of this country to bear, so that all the things can be repaired, rebuilt, or replaced.

Do your part in this. Think, remember, and act. Yes, it is bad. It could have been so much worse. It can and will be better again with the help of each and everyone of us.

LW

UPDATE: Tammi is already posting about what is needed. Listen to her, listen to Lee Ann and other locals, and follow their lead.

UPDATE: Kathy at On The Third Hand is okay! Her truck is not, so some of the generosity of America should be directed at her tip jar... Thanks for the update MB.

UPDATE: If you know of local blogs in or near the affected areas, let me know and I will add them to the list.

UPDATE: Thanks to the tireless Michele of A Small Victory for the links and for the outstanding coverage being done over at The Command Post. Go check it out, and that reminds me that I have been meaning to add that to the blogroll for a while now.