A time to prepare for hurricanes and other emotional storms to come

Inspiration

By Don Lindsey

In the last two weeks or so, it seems as if every TV, radio station or other local media outlet is warning me that hurricane season is upon us. With Irma being the biggest and scariest storm I’ve ever been a part of, we’re taking the time now to stock up on the essential things such as water, batteries, canned food, etc. As I was watching the news yesterday and listening to tips and such about hurricane preparedness, I began to reflect a bit and realized that the physical storms that may fall on our region aren’t the only type of storms, there are also personal issues that I’m preparing for and dealing with these days.

As I have mentioned before, my father’s health has been a concern this year, and on Wednesday, he was admitted to the hospital for chest pains. That’s always scary and even more so for me given the fact that he’s 86 years old. On Saturday, I was able to bring him home feeling better with the issues corrected, but every time he or my mother has a health scare, I’m forced to see just how precious my time with them is.

I mentioned earlier about stocking up for hurricane season, and as I was at the hospital visiting my father the other day, I began to think. I realized that in a lot of ways, I am preparing for the emotional storms as well through prayer and getting the most out of every moment I have with my parents. With prayer, I feel more centered and less burdened because I am giving the issues that I have no control over to God knowing that He will lead me in the right direction when the time is right. When I am not using prayer as a refuge, my life seems to be way more chaotic and out of control. It also helps me see things going on around me a lot clearer because I don’t have the typical daily worry.

For some, it may not be prayer. Maybe it’s music, meditation, spending time with friends and family or some other way. Regardless, I have found that whatever it is that gives us that mental respite is essential for staying calm when life throws rough weather in our direction. Staying calm can help those around us stay that way as well because it is challenging to see those we love upset, making us that way in the process. No matter how it is you prepare for the storms both physically and emotionally in your lives this season, I pray that you stay safe and lift up those around you to be prepared and safe as well. God Bless.

Don Lindsey is a follower of Christ, son, husband, father, and a survivor. Originally from Dayton Ohio, and resident of Apopka for six years, Don sees his life as a dedication to his wife, parents, children, and community.