Joplin

Tonight I am leaving to go on probably one of the most unique journeys of my life.

I am going to Joplin, MO for a week.

On May 22 of this year, one of the most devastating tornadoes in United States History struck this small town of 50,000 people, killing more than 120 people and injuring hundreds more. The F5 tornado left a 6 mile path of destruction through the town, causing mass destruction that more than likely take years to recuperate from.

I remember how this tragedy really struck my heart and just filled me with this unexplainable sadness. My whole day was ruined when I first heard about it. I was coming down the stairs at the house, and a CNN news alert came across my iPhone, stating that 89 people had been killed in a tornado the previous night in Joplin. Maybe it's because I know first-hand what it feels like to lose someone to tragedy, but tears welled up in my eyes and my heart really went out to these people. I just can't imagine tragedy at that level. And I pray that I never find out what it's like. I felt this overwhelming need to somehow help these people.

A week later, my pastor at Cypress Fellowship Church said that he was organizing a group of people to travel to Missouri to assist with the recovery effort. It was like a sign from God!

Now I must admit, at first I was a little hesitant to go. I have no idea what to expect when I get there, and I've never done anything like this before. Even now, just a few hours before we leave, I'm still feeling a bit of anxiety about going. Of course a lot of that could be attributed to the 12 hour van ride it will take to get to Joplin. With people I don't know very well. But that's part of the fun...right?

The logical side of me realizes that this is probably a once-in-a-life time opportunity: I'm currently unemployed (no need to request time off...) and childless (no need to seek out childcare...). When will I ever have better circumstances to do something like this? Probably never. Or at least not for a long time. Unless I stay unemployed for longer than I want to. But that's another blog for another day.

I have always said that in life, it is important to expand my comfort zone and seek out new, meaningful experiences. So if I really want to put my money where my mouth is, and walk the talk, than I need to go. Even if I'm a little scared.

Anyway, I think the overwhelming need for help and support overrules my selfish fears about going on this trip. I know God will be with me, and the rest of the group, the entire time, so I just need to offer up whatever help I can give, and pray that I will be of some use to the town of Joplin while I'm there.

I'll keep everyone updated as to my progress!

K