As I write this article, I find myself assisting the communities recently affected by severe weather in the Fox Valley. The level of devastation was not something anyone was prepared for. However, it was met with a resolve that I was not prepared for but had the honor and privilege to observe firsthand.
Over the years, I have written numerous articles surrounding the topic of resiliency, and I have drawn upon many examples. But the resolve, resiliency and optimism that have been on display over the past week are almost beyond comprehension. To see a family’s life’s work and memories lying in ruins while those same people extend what little they have left in energy and resources to help their neighbors is hard to put into words. It brings to mind a fundamental reality: We have more capacity than we know or can appreciate until we are placed in circumstances that demand that capacity. In this, I am referring to the capacity for courage, compassion, love and patience.
Very few of us will ever be placed in such circumstances, and in some ways, that is to our detriment, as it is in those experiences that our greatest attributes shine forth. It is in those times of struggle that we truly look adversity in the eye and declare that it will not define us. In fact, that pain and struggle can propel us to a place of courage and growth. That is, if we allow it.
As we arrived in these communities and walked through the devastation, it was hard not to feel a sense of guilt or shame that such amazing people had to face these circumstances while others like ourselves have homes and treasured belongings waiting for us. It was also difficult to grasp the amazing blessing that, in all of this devastation, no lives were lost.
Over the following days, as we interacted and shared stories, the true beauty of these people shone through. The sense of loss was overshadowed by the sense of gratitude, even while they were standing on a pile of rubble that was once their dream.
There is a phrase we use in teaching resiliency that states, “Do not let the tragedy define you.” But after this experience, I need to refine that statement, as I have no doubt that this tragedy will, in fact, define this community. It will define them in the sense that they have already chosen growth from the pain. They have already looked this adversity in the eye, smiled back and said, “We will not be defeated. You have made us stronger.”
Having been part of this community’s recovery, I want to thank its members for the profound impact they have made on my own perspective, helping me appreciate what really matters in life. I will not soon forget the smiles, laughter, tears and stories shared. Your strength has been inspiring, your perseverance has been humbling, and your courage will be your legacy.
