As Storms Wash Over, What Dries From The Rain Reveals The Complexity Of The Human Spirit | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

As Storms Wash Over, What Dries From The Rain Reveals The Complexity Of The Human Spirit

Hurricane Harvey's devastation renews faith in humanity.

21
As Storms Wash Over, What Dries From The Rain Reveals The Complexity Of The Human Spirit
Tulsa World

From the wreckage of the cataclysmic storm Harvey, the strength of the human spirit persists with all its complexities. As the terror rages on against the state of Texas, stark images of survivors, dilapidation, and sheer paralysis as a result of such devastation has revealed within itself that which makes humanity so unique, paradoxical, and most importantly: resilient.

Consider these images and among them, you will recognize the vulnerability, the solidarity, and the humanity of those directly afflicted by Harvey and the rescue workers seeking those in need. I ask only that each reader take a pause between each photo to contemplate the gravity of Harvey’s destruction on the people’s of Texas and recognize the blessings that are present within your own lives that you may well cease to acknowledge.

(from Nigerian Oracle posted Aug. 28th, 2017. Depicted here are men aiding an elderly women.)


(from the Berry posted Aug. 29th, 2017. Depicted here is a man evacuating the grossly flooded highway, finding ground to walk on by way of the cement dividing block. Visibly cars are submerged in a deep pool of water.)


(from the Los Angeles Sentinel. In this photo, a young boy navigates his way through the high levels of water to check on a neighbor in the adjacent apartment building according to the Sentinel.)


(from Chron. Depicted here are two people swept in an embrace, comforting each other in the wake of hurricane Harvey’s devastation.)


(from Long Room, posted Aug. 31st, 2017. Along with other victims, A man carries a young boy on his back as they trudge the flooded streets of Houston)


(from NewsOne. Seen here, a man is carried with the help of two men to safety from the murky waters.)


(from Tulsa World, posted Aug. 29th, 2017. Young volunteer Elizabeth Hill plays cards with Skyler Smith who evacuated his home to be placed in a shelter.)


Of all the photographs depicted here, this final image offers a glimpse into the resilient spirit of humanity. Despite the tragedies that have swept across Texas, there still lies within each person a sense of hope. Hope for the future and a hope for continued progress toward coming together for a common goal.

As a nation, we often find ourselves at odds with our fellow man when politics, economy, and warfare take precedence over the fundamental aspects of life. Yet among strife, we must face moments like these through the example set by children. If the innocence of children can teach us anything, it is that we can always be a lending hand to each other despite differences.

To offer help, here are some relief organizations to send donations and aid.

South Texas Blood and Tissue Center Call 210-731-5590 or visit its website.

Carter BloodCare. To donate, call 877-571-1000 or text DONATE4LIFE to 444-999.

For animal care, visit the Houston Humane Society or the San Antonio Humane Society. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has provided an animal emergency response hotline (713-861-3010) and is accepting donations on its website. (Caron, NY TImes, 2017)

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Featured

15 Mind-Bending Riddles

Hopefully they will make you laugh.

188176
 Ilistrated image of the planet and images of questions
StableDiffusion

I've been super busy lately with school work, studying, etc. Besides the fact that I do nothing but AP chemistry and AP economics, I constantly think of stupid questions that are almost impossible to answer. So, maybe you could answer them for me, and if not then we can both wonder what the answers to these 15 questions could be.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Most Epic Aurora Borealis Photos: October 2024

As if May wasn't enough, a truly spectacular Northern Lights show lit up the sky on Oct. 10, 2024

13640
stunning aurora borealis display over a forest of trees and lake
StableDiffusion

From sea to shining sea, the United States was uniquely positioned for an incredible Aurora Borealis display on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, going into Friday, Oct. 11.

It was the second time this year after an historic geomagnetic storm in May 2024. Those Northern Lights were visible in Europe and North America, just like this latest rendition.

Keep Reading...Show less
 silhouette of a woman on the beach at sunrise
StableDiffusion

Content warning: This article contains descriptions of suicide/suicidal thoughts.

When you are feeling down, please know that there are many reasons to keep living.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

Power of Love Letters

I don't think I say it enough...

456908
Illistrated image of a letter with 2 red hearts
StableDiffusion

To My Loving Boyfriend,

  • Thank you for all that you do for me
  • Thank you for working through disagreements with me
  • Thank you for always supporting me
  • I appreciate you more than words can express
  • You have helped me grow and become a better person
  • I can't wait to see where life takes us next
  • I promise to cherish every moment with you
  • Thank you for being my best friend and confidante
  • I love you and everything you do

To start off, here's something I don't say nearly enough: thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You do so much for me that I can't even put into words how much I appreciate everything you do - and have done - for me over the course of our relationship so far. While every couple has their fair share of tiffs and disagreements, thank you for getting through all of them with me and making us a better couple at the other end. With any argument, we don't just throw in the towel and say we're done, but we work towards a solution that puts us in a greater place each day. Thank you for always working with me and never giving up on us.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

11 Signs You Grew Up In Hauppauge, NY

Because no one ever really leaves.

26056
Map of Hauppauge, New York
Google

Ah, yes, good old Hauppauge. We are that town in the dead center of Long Island that barely anyone knows how to pronounce unless they're from the town itself or live in a nearby area. Hauppauge is home to people of all kinds. We always have new families joining the community but honestly, the majority of the town is filled with people who never leave (high school alumni) and elders who have raised their kids here. Around the town, there are some just some landmarks and places that only the people of Hauppauge will ever understand the importance or even the annoyance of.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments