Finding Community and Connection: Reflections on a Summer Storm's Silver Lining

I cannot believe that summer is almost over. While I enjoy the cooler (evening) temperatures and the changing colors of the leaves, I would love summer to be a bit longer, especially in northeastern Ohio.

August was a doozy of a month! In early August, Ohio had five confirmed tornadoes that left me without power and the internet for nearly ten days. I’ll admit I had a mixture of panic and joy of disconnect. While being forced off-line for that time wasn’t the best, it had its positives, and I observed a few happenings that renewed my faith in humanity.

I saw a sense of community, with people helping others, even those who were strangers, and asked for help.

I saw connections—kids playing with kids, parents playing with their kids, people out and about talking and walking outside.

I saw support—people checking in on their family and friends a little more often or neighbors checking in on their older neighbors to see if they needed anything.

I saw kindness—people were a little more patient or courteous at the stores and on the road.

At the root of everything, no matter where we come from or which side we’re on, there is still a lot of good in the world (cue Luke Bryan’s “Most People Are Good” song). We tend to forget that, especially with everything going on right now.

While things are back to normal, taking that pause was refreshing. It reminded me that it’s okay to disconnect and take a breather when you need it. It’s essential, and I hope reading this inspires you to do the same.

Now, I’ve got to tackle the 52 new designs I want to add to my offerings. All in due time.