In the wake of this horrible natural disaster in my home state of Texas the usual default media response has come forth. First, we hear about the imminent disaster on the way. Next comes coverage of the destruction and heartbreaking images.
Then there are stories of heroes and the realization that looters are taking advantage of people who've been devastated. Oh and throw in a few controversies to play on people's emotions such as how Joel Osteen supposedly "turned people away" (Get the facts here).
The things is, the majority of Americans always respond to tragedies with compassion, generosity, and helping hands.
A few hate groups who travel from state to state exploiting people, ensuing violence, spewing hate, and operating off the funding of people who actually hate America have created a wide stretched narrative about how racist and uncaring America is. Well the minority does not speak for me. These three examples of heroism represent what's wonderful about Americans.
1. The American Military's Rescue Operations
Hearing news about how rescue squadrons from Moody Air Force Base are helping people in Texas warms my heart and makes me so proud. I don't exclude the other bases who have sent personnel, but this is OUR base in my current home that has sent heroes to my HOME STATE to help. Some of these people are our friends and neighbors who work with my husband. Someone we've known for 11+ years is posting on social media asking to be contacted if anyone knows where else they can find people to help. I'm so proud of our United States Air Force Pararescuemen who are trained to deploy around the world but are also available from home when a need arises.
2. My Friends In Texas and Around the Country
I have friends in the Houston area who are driving to shelters daily to take people food and clothes. They are collecting from others who want to help as well. We have a friend who is a Air Force Veteran and former Pararescueman who is on the ground day after day VOLUNTEERING his medical expertise and ability to perform rescues anywhere he can be used. One of my Trades of Hope sisters is donating her sales commissions to relief efforts (Which I'm going to do as well since she inspired me!). I just love these people and their sacrificial love for other Americans they don't even know.
3. The Cajun Navy
The Cajun Navy are a group of hunters and fishermen with good boats and skills from Hammond Louisiana (ever seen Swamp People?) who have taken time off work to volunteer and rescue people. These guys are truly selfless and amazing. I heard someone say the other day, "Don't waste your money on the Red Cross. Most of the proceeds won't go to the victims. Do your research and find out who is giving 100% or close to it to the people who need it." The Cajun Navy has a pay-pal for donations that will be used to buy water for the rescuers and the rescued as well as cover the cost of gas to run the boats. I don't know about you, but I want to cry thinking of how people can sacrifice their own lives and income to save others. They say that they rescue others because when Hurricane Katrina happened, others rescued them.
Let's hear it for the heroes!
While there are college professors who want to tell this generation that American exceptionalism is wrong, I beg to differ. No country or culture is without sin just like no person is without their faults, but overall America is a beautiful country that I'm proud to call my home. These are just three of my favorite examples of dozens in the wake of a disaster that represent the overwhelming majority of America.
I searched for American hate groups a while ago and compared it to a search for Kindness Rocks as an experiment. Can you guess where the largest followings are? Anyway, I'm thankful for our heroes and they are the norm so I want to give their stories a much-needed boost of attention.
Keep praying for Texas and being exceptional Americans!
