Photo credit-The Tennessean
Images like this have made me cry this week. By now, you know all about the great 500-year flood we had in Nashville over the weekend. The damage is heartbreaking. The stories of lost friends and family members, ruined homes, and flooded cars is gutwrenching. We have a long road ahead of us to get Nashville and many parts of Tennessee back to what it was.
But beyond the loss, was something amazing. A community rose up immediately. Folks were putting boats in the water and risking their lives to help those stranded. Local media teams were taking chances in volatile weather to keep us informed. Within a 24-hour period, over 7,000 people had signed up as a volunteer at Hands on Nashville. And even still, there are teams of people who will spend at minimum, the rest of this week helping folks get back into their homes, but more likely, weeks and months.
Many tears have been shed and hearts ache as we watch those we love struggle with what will be a long road back to “normal”. I can’t help but wonder what the silver lining is in all of this. One thing is for sure…residents of Nashville and surrounding counties will never again wonder if we are a real community. Lifelong friendships have been borne and faith has grown out of the muddy waters of this flood.
I am so proud of this city and thankful to be Nashvillian.
If you’d like to donate funds, here are two (of the many) reputable sites: Hands on Nashville and CrossPoint Church.
Thanks for stopping by my blog! My goal is to look at life from the crossroads of work, life, faith, and family. Life's a Dance…even when it's raining. Subscribe to email updates 
Well said, Jennifer. My heart breaks for our city, but we will still shine!
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
Shine, indeed! Jenni, I am so proud to be a part of a team like CrossPoint. “Be the Church” is a motto lived out each day there.
[Reply]
I could not agree more. The outpouring has been and will continue to be amazing. It is in our genes as Christians.
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
The city needed to see that…especially from Christians.
[Reply]
Oh dear Nashville. I can’t believe it. All that water. If ever a city could pull together it’s Nashville. What a great, loving community. Even in the midst of tragedy.
It’s in times like this when we know our strength and faith.
Grace and peace,
Rachel
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Rachel,
Thanks for your prayers. A long road ahead, but we’ll get there.
[Reply]
Being in the midst of devastation is so hard. But there is something to be said about how much depth of right relationship, growth, community, and sweet mercy is known in those times. Bittersweet to be reminded of a great savior.
Praying for you.
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Tracee,
You are so right. Love those words “sweet mercy”.
[Reply]
I spent over 20 years in broadcasting and have seen many, many disasters and I’ve never seen a response like I’ve seen around here in the last few days. We knew when we moved to Nashville that we were going to be here for the rest of our lives…seeing these people just confirms it for us.
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Jason,
I know you miss radio still sometimes, but you are right where God wants you!
[Reply]
Very well said! I too, am proud to be a part of a city that refuses to be defined by stereotypes, and one that pulls together in times of crisis!
[Reply]
JenDeshler Reply:
May 5th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
Brian,
It’s something we’ll all treasure for years to come. You’re so right.
[Reply]