United We Sand....again!

It was now two years ago that I conceived of the "United We Sand" campaign, and once again, our region is in the midst of severe flooding. And once again, the members of our community (Fargo & Moorhead and surrounding communities) have come together, filling literally millions of sandbags in an effort to contain the waters and protect the homes and businesses we hold dear. People of all ages, have come together to do what they can to aid in the efforts in unprecedented numbers, expecting nothing in return and if fills my heart with joy.

I recently came across this quote...

And in my own life, in my own small way, I've tried to give back to this country that has given me so much. That's why I left a job at a law firm for a career in public service, working to empower young people to volunteer in their communities. Because I believe that each of us - no matter what our age or background or walk of life - each of us has something to contribute to the life of this nation.
Michelle Obama

That has been so true these past few months, more than ever...each of us has something to contribute. Helping a neighbor prepare for the flood, sharing information, filling sandbags, teaching others how to prepare, a friendly smile, opening a door for someone, allowing them to change lanes in traffic. Our community is far better off for it.

Why here, why now...again? I can say that living in this region and seeing the efforts of the community, I often feel the positive energy associated with the preparations for the flooding. I have seen people opening doors for each other, striking up a conversations with a stranger, and felt an overwhelming sense of compassion for our fellow human being. Interaction seems easier, friendlier, and more helpful. There is a change here, one that there is no mistaking, the act of selfless giving. Everyone doing their part, some part.

Does it require a natural disaster for us to give permission once again to be compassionate towards others? It is in the midst of crisis, that priorities tend to fall into order, there is no doubt. The challenge is, as the waters recede, how do we hang on to that sense of community? That spirit of giving as we begin to resume our "normal" lives.

Can we all quit our jobs and pursue a life of public service? Hardly, but we can give of ourselves, if only in our interactions with others, greeting each day and each other with an open heart. Finding our something may be as easy as just opening our eyes and seeing what is right before you.

United We Sand....again!