The Aftermath...

Well, Gustav was definitely "worthy of respect". It was more than I expected. He came through, said his peace, and left a royal mess! Click HERE to see some pictures of town. WJBO probably had the best group of photo's from BR that I've found so far.

Personally, I've never seen or experienced anything like this in East Baton Rouge, Ascension or Livingston parishes. It pretty much took out the power for the majority of the people, all of the red lights were out (a story within itself - talk about test your Christianity!), power lines were down everywhere! It really looks and feels like we are living in a war zone. Window units and generators have become a needed commodity for most people as the true heroes (electrical crews) work tirelessly to restore power to the area. Little by little they are making progress. Food and gas have finally become more accessible. At first it was hard to locate. Despite all of this destruction that we are in the center of, Jesus has been and still is there to begin picking up the pieces. People have pulled together to help one another. I've heard so many stories this week of "Jesus' hands" at work among the common people already!

On top of all of that, Doug's dad passed away the night that the storm came through. Very hard week for the family. There was so much going on with everyone that no one had time to think about things. The funeral home had no power until later in the week. It was 5 days before services could be held due to all of the problems in town.

To say the least, my perspective has been changed. Actually it's been train wrecked! Over the past week, I have a completely new respect for those that face widespread destruction. I've witnessed people in panic, selfishness like I've never witnessed before, and learned how incredibly spoiled I am to electricity, A/C and how dependent I am to both! Wow...to think that there are people (which I have experienced first hand) that live like this daily. God just kind of gently reminded me of how truly blessed I am, and He certainly protected our home and family throughout the storm! No doubt!

Thank You Lord! I praise You in this 'storm'! Jesus, help us to see things from Your perspective. Help us to be your hands and feet during this recovery. As things begin to return to normal, may we never forget the lessons we've learned throughout this time. May we forever be changed. Thank You for protecting so many of us. Bless those who seem to have not been as lucky. Give them the help they need Lord and pour Your love and favor on them. Bless those who have unselfishly given of themselves (some to the point of exhaustion)! Lastly, protect us from Ike who seems to be heading our direction. God, please, let that thing fizzle out...let it be a dud! I give You praise and believe that You truly have us in Your mighty hands! Thank You Lord! Thank You!