Throughout my lifetime, I recall several weather-related storms that wreaked havoc in our state… the first being the super tornado outbreak in 1974. I think, in some ways, we gauge whatever storms we have now with what happened on April 3 of that year.

It was devastating, to say the least. We had an old cellar behind our house where we took refuge, and. while the storms were all around us, by the grace of God, we did not suffer any physical damage.

But the memories have remained since that day, and whenever I hear tornado warning sirens, I’m taken back to that time and place. We didn’t have the technology available today to keep us informed, but we had brave local responders who did their best to keep our small communities safe.

In experiencing what seems to be numerous weather-related events having taken place this year already, including historic floods, I once again have to give thanks for my family’s safety while feeling such sorrow for those who have suffered insurmountable losses.

And while it may be hard to glean the good out of a situation that is so bad, I have witnessed silver linings everywhere I have been.

The true blessing in all of this conundrum is the people in our communities: the leaders, volunteers, first responders, friends and neighbors, and anyone who has something to give—be it their time or resources. It’s about helping those who have lost their homes, belongings, and, for some, their hope that all would eventually return to some kind of normalcy.

I had the opportunity to ride along with two of our fine first responders from my hometown, Amy Womack, Emergency Management Deputy Director, and John Shuttleworth, Deputy Director of Public Safety in Anderson County.

Needing a few photos for a magazine story, I arrived to meet them at the EMS station. I discovered a local citizen there talking about the home he evaluated due to the flood waters. Amy told me that often those affected by these horrific events just need to talk to someone, and, as first responders, they are glad to listen.

As we made our way to a couple of locations to see what damage had been done, these two rescuers took the time to talk to people who could do nothing but wait for the waters to recede.

They gave out water and food at various locations, but perhaps the most important thing they were giving that day was a bit of hope to those who needed it the most.

I know these acts of caring and compassion were taking place, not just in my hometown, but all over our state. Wherever there was a need, there was always someone there doing their best to fulfill those needs.

The people of this fine state have a resolve to move forward after such disasters and a will to look to a brighter day. It makes me proud to live in a place like this. A place where neighbors help each other and share what they have with those who may have nothing left to share.

Yes, there is a silver lining in all this: It’s wonderful people who make the effort to give of themselves during times when it’s needed the most. I hope one day I can meet them all, as I travel down the backroads.

Tim Thornberry, Editor
Kentucky Farm Bureau News