We are now in the stage where shock starts to wear off. Evacuees and non-evacuees alike will be hit with the full force of what has happened to them, their friends, and this City. Coping mechanisms will vary; some will make sense, like helping a neighbour clean their flooded home, and others will not; like buying all the twinkies a person can find.
Consider yourself. Your own reactions may vary. You may suddenly realize you forgot to check in with your second cousin who lives in an evacuated area. That's ok. You may realize you're ill-prepared for a long emergency. That's ok too. Worry and anxiety may start to rise faster that the floodwaters. This is not the end of the world.
Consider a few questions for yourself:
1. How are you feeling right now?
2. Is there anyone you can hang out with or speak with today? It is important to have face-to-face connections.
3. Are you safe?
4. Is there something you can do right now that will make you feel productive? Making a pot of tea, folding laundry, sweeping the kitchen floor are all easy examples.
These questions, while trivial, can help alleviate any rising anxiety or calm any fears. Even if you yourself seem ok, take a look at the people around you. Check in with them.
We are all in this together.
Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but to do what lies clearly at hand. - How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie
Take care.
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