It is evident that there will be storms. Weather storms and life’s storms. The dark, dreary days will come. Hopefully they will be few and far between. It is in those storms that we can appreciate the good days. The dark days are actually “training” days so that we can learn from the trials and consider them “training” to do better or do more.

I just read a quote by Fred Rogers, otherwise known as “Mr. Rogers.” He said that when he was a boy and would see scary things in the news, his mother would say “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

My state of North Carolina is going to be affected this weekend by Hurricane Florence, and I’ve been thinking about what’s important in life. The unknown is always scary. It’s time to face the unknown and be the helper in the coming days. Broaden your circle and make sure that those around you, whether you know them or not, will be safe and secure.

Each trial, each dark day, whether a major hurricane or just a little rain, is an opportunity for you to embrace. You can ride out the storm or you can prepare in advance. The choice is yours. Preparedness builds confidence and brings peace knowing you have done all you can do.  Regardless, you may need some reading material or a short list of supplies and things to consider. I have provided those below.

Hurricane Relief Resources
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php
https://weather.com/

Reading Material
Staring From Scratch by Shelly L. Henderson

Emergency Supply List

• Batteries – check all devices to see what kind you need
• Canned foods plus a manual can opener
• Cash, as many cash registers may not run without power
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
• Flashlights
• Water for drinking, flushing, and bathing
• Cleaning supplies and outdoor garbage bags for storm cleanup
• Sleeping bags (camping gear)
• Firepit or grill for cooking food (store until after storm and only use outside)
• Ice for a cooler to hold food

Things to Consider

• Take down door wreaths and flags
• Take your plants in if they are in danger of blowing away or tipping over
• Store trash and recycle cans in your garage
• Make sure pets have food
• Charge phones
• Run the dishwasher and do a last load of laundry while you can
• Always take the planning and preparation seriously
• Prepare of the worst but hope for the best
• Playing Fantasy Football? Set your team before Sunday’s kick off in case you lose power!